Arrange the “Bi…” words in dictionary order (A→Z). Words: (i) Billian, (ii) Bifurcate, (iii) Bilateral, (iv) Bilirubin. Choose the strict alphabetical sequence.
Correct Answer: (ii), (iii), (i), (iv)
Introduction / Context:All words share the “bi…” prefix. We must compare the subsequent letters methodically to avoid swapping near neighbors, especially among the “bila…” and “bili…” cluster.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Words: Bifurcate, Bilateral, Billian, Bilirubin.
- Compare case-insensitively and ignore meanings.
Concept / Approach:First, “bif…” precedes any “bil…”. Among the “bil…” group, compare letter by letter: “bila…” vs “billi…” vs “bili r…”. “bila…” (with “a”) precedes “bili…”. Between “billian” and “bilirubin”, “billian” has “…billi a n” while “bilirubin” is “…bili r…”, and since “a” < “r”, “billian” precedes “bilirubin”.
Step-by-Step Solution:Order: (ii) Bifurcate → (iii) Bilateral → (i) Billian → (iv) Bilirubin.
Verification / Alternative check:Check each adjacent pair using character-by-character comparison to confirm no reversals.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:They invert the internal order within the “bil…” cluster (often swapping Billian and Bilirubin) or place a “bil…” word ahead of “bif…”.
Common Pitfalls:
- Sorting by familiarity (e.g., Bilirubin is common in medicine) rather than letters.
Final Answer:(ii), (iii), (i), (iv).