PLS2601 OCTNOV 2025 EXAM (Answer Guide) – Due 14 October 2025

PLS2601 OCTNOV 2025 EXAM (Answer Guide) – Due 14 October 2025 Question 1: What kind of definitions are in the sentences below? 1.1 According to the physicist Murray Gell-Mann, a quark is an unusual type of subatomic particle. Answer: Stipulative Definition This is a stipulative definition because it introduces a specific meaning of the term “quark” as used by the physicist. The term did not have an established meaning before its introduction, and Gell-Mann stipulated what it refers to in the context of particle physics. A stipulative definition is not judged as true or false t simply explains how a term will be used in a particular discussion or field. 1.2 The word ‘Mountain’ means a large mass or rock rising to a considerable height above the surrounding country. Answer: Lexical Definition This is a lexical or dictionary definition because it provides the commonly accepted meaning of the word “mountain” as found in ordinary language usage. Lexical definitions clarify how a term is ordinarily used in speech or writing and aim to capture conventional meaning rather than introduce a new one. 1.3 Can a tree falling in a wilderness with nobody around produce sound? Well, whether anyone is there to hear it or not, the crush of a falling tree will set up vibrations in the air and will therefore produce a sound in any event. Answer: Theoretical Definition This is a theoretical definition because it defines “sound” in scientific terms as air vibrations, rather than as something perceived by the ear.