UPSC Prelims 2012·CSAT·Logical Reasoning·Deductive Logic

Consider the following statement: The Third World War, if it ever starts, will end very quickly with the possible end of civilization. It is only the misuse of nuclear power that will trigger it. Based on the above statement, which one of the following inferences is correct?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. ANuclear power will be used in the Third World WarCorrect
  2. BThere will be no civilization left after the Third World War
  3. CThe growth of nuclear power will destroy civilization in the long run
  4. DThe Third World War will not take place.

Explanation

The statement establishes a direct cause and effect relationship. It specifically states that the misuse of nuclear power is the only factor that will trigger the Third World War. Therefore, if the war starts, it must involve the use of nuclear power. Option A is the most logical inference because the statement identifies nuclear power as the catalyst and cause of the conflict. Option B is incorrect because the statement says there is a possible end of civilization, not a certain one. Option C is incorrect because the statement blames the misuse of nuclear power, not its general growth, and links it specifically to a war rather than a general long-term trend. Option D is incorrect because the statement discusses what would happen if the war starts, without claiming it will never happen.
Logical Reasoning: Consider the following statement: The Third World War, if it ever starts, will end very quickly with the possible end of
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