During the early development of a new idea, scientists behave rather like artists, driven by temperament. We start off with a hunch, a feeling, even a desire that the world be one way, and then we proceed from that presentiment, often sticking with it long after the data suggest we may be leading ourselves and others down a blind alley. What saves us is that experiment acts as the ultimate referee, settling all disputes. No matter how strong our hunch is, at some point we will have to prove it with facts. Otherwise our hunch, no matter how strongly held, will remain just that.
In the first two sentences ('During'… 'alley'), scientists are presented as all of the following EXCEPT:
- A. predisposed
- B. determined
- C. inherently logical
- D. overly zealous
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: C
The portrayal of scientists in the first two sentences emphasizes their predisposition (A) and determination (B) in their pursuits, highlighting their commitment to discovery. Additionally, the term "overly zealous" (D) suggests an intense passion, which can also be a characteristic of scientists. However, the phrase "inherently logical" (C) is not supported in the text, as it does not imply that scientists are always guided by logic alone; emotions and biases can also influence their work. Thus, option C stands apart from the others.
The portrayal of scientists in the first two sentences emphasizes their predisposition (A) and determination (B) in their pursuits, highlighting their commitment to discovery. Additionally, the term "overly zealous" (D) suggests an intense passion, which can also be a characteristic of scientists. However, the phrase "inherently logical" (C) is not supported in the text, as it does not imply that scientists are always guided by logic alone; emotions and biases can also influence their work. Thus, option C stands apart from the others.
Other Related Questions
The claim about the 'metamorphosis' primarily serves to:
- A. refute a theory
- B. support a prediction
- C. introduce an alternative view
- D. downplay a change
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: B
The claim about the 'metamorphosis' primarily serves to support a prediction by illustrating how significant transformations can lead to anticipated outcomes. This connection reinforces the idea that change is not only possible but expected in certain contexts. Option A, refuting a theory, does not align since the claim does not attempt to discredit existing ideas. Option C, introducing an alternative view, is incorrect as the claim builds upon existing concepts rather than presenting a different perspective. Lastly, option D, downplaying a change, is inaccurate; the term 'metamorphosis' emphasizes rather than minimizes the impact of transformation.
The claim about the 'metamorphosis' primarily serves to support a prediction by illustrating how significant transformations can lead to anticipated outcomes. This connection reinforces the idea that change is not only possible but expected in certain contexts. Option A, refuting a theory, does not align since the claim does not attempt to discredit existing ideas. Option C, introducing an alternative view, is incorrect as the claim builds upon existing concepts rather than presenting a different perspective. Lastly, option D, downplaying a change, is inaccurate; the term 'metamorphosis' emphasizes rather than minimizes the impact of transformation.
Because these speeding particles' compositions were quite different from those of other low-energy cosmic rays, scientists dubbed them ___ cosmic rays.
- A. intermittent
- B. transitory
- C. resilient
- D. anomalous
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D
The term "anomalous" refers to something that deviates from the norm or is irregular, which accurately describes these speeding particles with compositions differing from typical low-energy cosmic rays. Option A, "intermittent," implies something occurring at irregular intervals, which does not capture the essence of the particles' unique composition. Option B, "transitory," suggests a temporary existence, failing to address the distinctiveness of the particles. Option C, "resilient," indicates strength or durability, which is unrelated to the compositional differences being highlighted. Thus, "anomalous" best conveys the uniqueness of these cosmic rays.
The term "anomalous" refers to something that deviates from the norm or is irregular, which accurately describes these speeding particles with compositions differing from typical low-energy cosmic rays. Option A, "intermittent," implies something occurring at irregular intervals, which does not capture the essence of the particles' unique composition. Option B, "transitory," suggests a temporary existence, failing to address the distinctiveness of the particles. Option C, "resilient," indicates strength or durability, which is unrelated to the compositional differences being highlighted. Thus, "anomalous" best conveys the uniqueness of these cosmic rays.
In context, the last sentence of Passage 2 is best understood to:
- A. argue in favor of a restrained response
- B. make light of a difficult situation
- C. challenge an established belief
- D. emphasize the severity of a transgression
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D
The last sentence of Passage 2 emphasizes the seriousness of the transgression, highlighting its impact and consequences. This aligns with option D, as it conveys a strong sense of urgency and gravity regarding the situation. Option A misinterprets the tone, as a restrained response would downplay the issue rather than underscore its severity. Option B suggests a light-hearted approach, which contradicts the serious nature of the transgression discussed. Lastly, option C implies a challenge to beliefs, but the sentence focuses more on the severity of actions rather than questioning established norms.
The last sentence of Passage 2 emphasizes the seriousness of the transgression, highlighting its impact and consequences. This aligns with option D, as it conveys a strong sense of urgency and gravity regarding the situation. Option A misinterprets the tone, as a restrained response would downplay the issue rather than underscore its severity. Option B suggests a light-hearted approach, which contradicts the serious nature of the transgression discussed. Lastly, option C implies a challenge to beliefs, but the sentence focuses more on the severity of actions rather than questioning established norms.
In context, the metaphor in the third sentence ('it was... years') chiefly serves to:
- A. Call attention to the age of the United States as a nation
- B. Question the literary value of the writings by Lewis and Clark
- C. Trivialize the accomplishments of the Lewis and Clark expedition
- D. Place the Lewis and Clark expedition into a broad context
Correct Answer & Rationale
Correct Answer: D
The metaphor in the third sentence effectively situates the Lewis and Clark expedition within a larger historical framework, emphasizing its significance in the broader narrative of American exploration and expansion. Option A incorrectly focuses solely on the age of the United States, neglecting the expedition's specific context. Option B misinterprets the metaphor's intent, as it does not critique literary value but rather highlights historical importance. Option C suggests a diminishing view of the expedition's accomplishments, which contradicts the metaphor's purpose of elevating its significance within American history.
The metaphor in the third sentence effectively situates the Lewis and Clark expedition within a larger historical framework, emphasizing its significance in the broader narrative of American exploration and expansion. Option A incorrectly focuses solely on the age of the United States, neglecting the expedition's specific context. Option B misinterprets the metaphor's intent, as it does not critique literary value but rather highlights historical importance. Option C suggests a diminishing view of the expedition's accomplishments, which contradicts the metaphor's purpose of elevating its significance within American history.