Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 3, 5, 2, 4, 1
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
With words sharing a long common prefix (“Gen…”), you must compare the entire strings lexicographically. Alphabetical ordering proceeds character by character until a difference decides the order, and this must be repeated for each pair in the set.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Compare using the smallest index where letters differ. Among “Gen…”, evaluate the letter right after “gen”.
Step-by-Step Solution:
“Gender” (gende…) vs “General” (gener…): “d” < “r” ⇒ Gender precedes General.“Genesis” (genes…) must follow General (gener… vs genes… → “r” (114) < “s” (115)).“Gentle” (gent…) follows Genesis because “t” (116) > “s” (115).“Genuine” (genu…) comes last among these since “u” (117) is after “t”.Final order: Gender → General → Genesis → Gentle → Genuine → indices 3, 5, 2, 4, 1.
Verification / Alternative check:
Write all five and underline the first differing letter after “gen”; verify pairwise order to avoid slips.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Stopping at “gene-” and not checking the next letter; also, misplacing “Genesis” vs “General.”
Final Answer:
3, 5, 2, 4, 1
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