UPSC Prelims 2021·CSAT·Logical Reasoning·Series and Sequences

In the series _b_a_ba_b_abab_aab; fill in the six blanks ( _ ) using one of the following given four choices such that the series follows a specific order

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  1. Abababa
  2. Bbaabba
  3. Cbbaabb
  4. DabababCorrect

Explanation

The correct answer is D) ababab.

Here's a brief explanation:

  1. Fill the blanks with option D (ababab): When we fill the six blanks ( _ ) in the series _b_a_ba_b_abab_aab with 'ababab', the complete series becomes: a b b a a b a b b a b a b a b a a b

  2. Identify the pattern by grouping: Divide the series into blocks of three characters: (abb) (aab) (abb) (aba) (bab) (aab)

  3. Analyze the composition of each block:

    • Block 1: abb (1 'a', 2 'b's)
    • Block 2: aab (2 'a's, 1 'b')
    • Block 3: abb (1 'a', 2 'b's)
    • Block 4: aba (2 'a's, 1 'b')
    • Block 5: bab (1 'a', 2 'b's)
    • Block 6: aab (2 'a's, 1 'b')
  4. Observe the consistent pattern: The series follows a clear alternating pattern where each block of three characters consistently alternates between having (1 'a' and 2 'b's) and (2 'a's and 1 'b').

  5. Why other options are incorrect:

    • A) bababa: Filling with this option results in "bbb..." at the start, which immediately breaks the observed (1a, 2b) / (2a, 1b) pattern.
    • B) baabba: This option starts with "bba aab aba...", where 'aba' (2a, 1b) follows 'aab' (2a, 1b), breaking the alternating pattern of character counts.
    • C) bbaabb: This option results in "bbb..." at the start, similar to A, breaking the pattern.

Therefore, option D is the only choice that creates a consistent and logical pattern in the series.

Logical Reasoning: In the series _b_a_ba_b_abab_aab; fill in the six blanks ( _ ) using one of the following given four choices such that t

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