Observe the following solid shape :

Which one of the following is the top view of the given solid?

To determine the top view of the given solid shape, let us analyze the arrangement of the cubes when viewed directly from above (top-down view):

1. Observe the Columns: Looking at the given 3D figure, the solid is composed of unit cubes arranged in 4 columns along the base line (from left to right).

- Column 1 (far left): Has a stack of cubes, with its top surface visible from the top view.

- Column 2 (second from left): Has a stack of 3 cubes, with its top surface visible at the highest level.

- Column 3 (third from left): Has a stack of 2 cubes, with its top surface visible.

- Column 4 (far right): Has a single cube, with its top surface visible.

2. Determine the Shape from Above: Regardless of the height (number of vertical cubes stacked) in each column, viewing the structure from directly above compresses the vertical dimension. Each of the 4 columns contributes exactly one visible square face to the top view.

3. Combine the Squares: Since there are 4 columns side-by-side in a straight row, the top view consists of 4 square faces arranged horizontally in a continuous line of 4 squares.

Therefore, the correct top view is represented by a row of 4 connected squares: