PrepTest 132, Section 3, Question 9
A vigorous debate in astronomy centers on an(463 more words not shown)
The author's attitude toward arguments(30 more words not shown)
- Aambivalence because the(16 more words not shown)
- Bcaution because even(20 more words not shown)
- Cskepticism because it(17 more words not shown)
- Dcuriosity because many(18 more words not shown)
- Eoutright acceptance because(9 more words not shown)
Reading the passage
My first reaction is that the author is receptive: this looks like useful evidence for widespread bombardment. But the author isn't fully convinced. The closing sentence says more samples are needed to determine the event's reach.
What we’re looking for
Keep that reservation in mind as we compare the attitude words and their explanations.
Working the answers
- A
The author doesn't describe the rock's journey as both appealing and hard to believe. Recognizing uncertainty isn't the same as expressing those mixed reactions.
- BCorrect
I initially leaned toward a positive attitude, but this captures the qualification at the end. Even if this rock really came from Mars, one example isn't enough to establish the bombardment's pervasiveness. The author calls for many more rocks and possibly samples from other planets.
- C
The author doesn't say a rock's travel from Mars is unlikely. The uncertainty about its origin doesn't establish that skeptical reaction.
- D
We aren't told that details remain unpublished. This invents a reason for curiosity.
- E
“Outright acceptance” is too strong. The text treats the rock's Martian origin as conditional and still requests additional evidence (paragraph 3). Neither the rock's origin nor the broader conclusion is treated as settled.
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