Test: Verbal Reasoning (Level 600) - 2 - GMAT MCQ

The passage discusses the various factors that book review editors consider when deciding which books to review in their publications. Let's analyze each option provided in the question to determine which one is not mentioned as a factor influencing the editors' decisions:

A. News releases from publishers:

• The passage mentions that "Before publication, editors receive news releases and printer's proofs of certain books." This indicates that editors do consider news releases from publishers.

B. Sales figures compiled by bookstores:

• There is no mention of sales figures compiled by bookstores in the passage. The focus is on factors like news releases, advertising efforts, and opinions of literary experts rather than actual sales figures.

C. The opinions of literary experts:

• The passage states, "But editors feel some concern about what might endure, and therefore listen to literary experts." This indicates that editors do take the opinions of literary experts into account.

D. The probability that the books will be extensively advertised:

• The passage discusses how editors are aware of which books will be heavily advertised: "They will be heavily advertised and probably be among the books that most bookstores order in quantity." Therefore, editors do consider the likelihood that books will be extensively advertised.

E. The likelihood that the books will be reviewed in other publications:

• The passage mentions that editors consider whether a book will be newsworthy and written about elsewhere: "Editors can risk having a few of the less popular titles reviewed, but they must consider what will be newsworthy, advertised, and written about elsewhere." This indicates that editors do consider the likelihood that books will be reviewed in other publications.

Given the analysis above, the correct answer is:

B. Sales figures compiled by bookstores

Let's break down the main idea of the second paragraph:

The second paragraph discusses the various considerations that book review editors must take into account when deciding which books to review. It highlights the influence of publishers' promotional efforts, the need to review books that will be advertised and available in stores, and the balance between reviewing popular and less popular titles. The paragraph emphasizes that editors' decisions are influenced by the business aspects of the book trade.

Given this analysis, let's evaluate each option:

A. Decisions made by book review editors are influenced by the business of selling books:

• This option accurately captures the main idea of the second paragraph. The paragraph discusses how editors consider the promotional efforts of publishers, the likelihood of a book being advertised and available in stores, and the balance between reviewing popular and less popular titles. All these factors highlight the influence of the business of selling books on editors' decisions.

B. Book review editors must be familiar with all aspects of the book trade:

• While familiarity with the book trade is implied, this option is broader and less specific than the main idea presented in the second paragraph, which focuses on the influence of business considerations on review decisions.

C. Advertising is the most important factor influencing book sales:

• This option is too narrow. While advertising is mentioned as a significant factor, the paragraph also discusses other business considerations, such as the availability of books in stores and the overall promotional efforts by publishers.

D. Book reviews usually have no influence on what books are ordered in quantity by stores:

• This option contradicts the paragraph. The paragraph implies that reviews and the promotional efforts surrounding books can influence their availability in stores.

E. Publishers deliberately try to influence the decisions of book review editors:

• While the paragraph does mention that publishers' promotional efforts influence editors' decisions, the main idea is more about the editors' considerations rather than the deliberate actions of publishers.

Given the analysis above, the correct answer is:

A. Decisions made by book review editors are influenced by the business of selling books

To answer the question about the major concern of the unenthusiastic book reviewers, let's analyze the relevant part of the passage in detail.

The passage states:

"A generation ago, a newspaper used a brilliant system of choosing which books to feature. The book review editor sent out a greater number of books than reviews he actually intended to publish. If a review was unenthusiastic, he reasoned that the book was not important enough to be discussed immediately, and if good reviews of enough other books came in, the unenthusiastic review might never be printed. The unenthusiastic reviewers were paid promptly anyway, but they learned that if they wanted their material to be printed, it was advisable to be kind."

This indicates that:

• Unenthusiastic reviewers were paid promptly even if their reviews were not published.
• Reviewers who wanted their reviews to be printed needed to write more positive reviews.

Given this information, let's evaluate each option:

A. Ensure prompt payment for their work:

• The passage indicates that unenthusiastic reviewers were paid promptly regardless of whether their reviews were published, so this was not their major concern.

B. Influence public opinion of books:

• The passage does not suggest that the primary concern of the unenthusiastic reviewers was to influence public opinion. It focuses on their desire to have their reviews published.

C. Confirm the opinions of other reviewers:

• There is no mention in the passage about reviewers seeking to confirm the opinions of other reviewers.

D. Promote new books by their favorite authors:

• The passage does not discuss reviewers having a specific interest in promoting books by their favorite authors.

E. Have their reviews published in the newspaper:

• This is the best choice, as the passage indicates that unenthusiastic reviewers learned that being kind (positive) in their reviews increased the likelihood of their reviews being published.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

E. Have their reviews published in the newspaper

To determine which question the passage provides information to answer, we need to carefully analyze the content of the passage and match it with the options given.

Let's review each option in the context of the passage:

A. Would most book review editors prefer to have books reviewed without regard to the probable commercial success of the books?

• The passage indicates that commercial success and factors like advertising and availability in bookstores do influence editors' decisions. It does not suggest that editors prefer to ignore these factors. Therefore, the passage does not provide information to answer this question.

B. Are publishers' efforts to persuade bookstores to order certain books generally effective?

• The passage mentions that publishers send news releases and printer's proofs to editors, and these books are heavily advertised and ordered by bookstores in quantity: "They will be heavily advertised and probably be among the books that most bookstores order in quantity." This suggests that publishers' efforts are indeed effective in persuading bookstores to order these books. Therefore, the passage provides information to answer this question.

C. On what basis do literary experts decide that a book is or is not important?

• The passage mentions that editors listen to literary experts, but it does not provide specific information on the criteria that literary experts use to decide if a book is important. Therefore, the passage does not provide information to answer this question.

D. What criteria are used to determine the length of a particular book review?

• The passage does not discuss the criteria used to determine the length of book reviews. Therefore, the passage does not provide information to answer this question.

E. Have book review practices in general changed significantly since a generation ago?

• The passage does mention a system used a generation ago for choosing which books to feature, but it does not provide enough information to determine if book review practices in general have changed significantly since then. Therefore, the passage does not provide information to answer this question.

Given the analysis above, the correct answer is:

B. Are publishers' efforts to persuade bookstores to order certain books generally effective?

Let's analyze the process described in the passage to determine which principles are being used:

1. The tendency of hot air to rise (Principle I):

   • The passage describes a double-layered roof where the inner layer reflects infrared light, trapping solar heat between the layers. This heated air rises and is drawn down into the greenhouse. The principle that hot air rises is indirectly involved because it helps in trapping heat between the two layers and in the distribution of heat within the greenhouse.

2. The directional movement of wind (Principle II):

   • The greenhouse is oriented to the prevailing wind, and the front wall is perforated to allow wind to enter and cool the hot air. The movement of the wind is a key factor in cooling and moistening the air entering the greenhouse.

3. Variation in the moisture capacity of air (Principle III):

   • The passage describes how air absorbs moisture at different stages, including the cooling and condensation of moisture. This principle is used when moist air from the seawater-moistened walls is cooled, causing moisture to condense, which then provides distilled water for irrigation.

Based on the passage:

• Principle I (the tendency of hot air to rise) is used, but indirectly, in the trapping and mixing of air.
• Principle II (the directional movement of wind) is explicitly mentioned and used to cool the air entering the greenhouse.
• Principle III (variation in the moisture capacity of air) is crucial in the process of cooling and condensing moisture to collect distilled water.

Given these explanations, the correct answer is:

E. II and III only

Let's analyze the purpose of the greenhouse roof design based on the passage:

1. The avoidance of intense solar heat inside the greenhouse (Statement I):

   • The passage states that the roof is double-layered, with the inner layer coated to reflect infrared light outward. This design allows visible sunlight to enter but prevents intense solar heat from being trapped inside the greenhouse. The inner layer helps to avoid excessive heat accumulation, thus achieving the goal of avoiding intense solar heat inside.

2. The entry of sunlight into the greenhouse to make the plants grow (Statement II):

   • The passage mentions that the greenhouse roof allows visible sunlight to enter. Sunlight is essential for plant growth, and this design feature ensures that enough light reaches the plants while managing the heat.

3. The mixture of heated air with greenhouse air to enhance the collection of moisture (Statement III):

   • The passage describes how the heated air trapped between the two layers of the roof is drawn down into the greenhouse. This heated air then mixes with the greenhouse air, interacting with the seawater-moistened walls and eventually contributing to the condensation of moisture, which is collected as distilled water.

Based on these points:

• Statement I is correct as the design helps avoid intense solar heat.
• Statement II is correct as the roof allows sunlight to enter, which is necessary for plant growth.
• Statement III is correct because the heated air from the roof contributes to the moisture collection process.

Therefore, the greenhouse roof design is intended to achieve all three objectives: avoiding intense solar heat, allowing sunlight in for plant growth, and mixing heated air with greenhouse air to enhance moisture collection.

Given this, the correct answer is:

C. I and II only

The passage indicates that the seawater-moistened cardboard walls cool and moisten the hot air blowing into the greenhouse and later help the air absorb more moisture before cooling it again to condense moisture. Hence, their main function is to cool and humidify the air inside the greenhouse.

The passage explains that the inner layer of the double-layered roof is coated to reflect infrared light outward while allowing visible sunlight in, and it traps solar heat between the two layers. This design facilitates the collection of moisture by ensuring that the heated air is drawn down and mixes with the greenhouse air to enhance moisture absorption and condensation. Hence, the primary purpose is to allow sunlight in while trapping heat to facilitate moisture collection.

This question is testing your comprehension of the passage and your ability to identify the American perspective on the flaws of the British government. Let's break down the options:

(A) Maintaining a monarchy: The passage mentions that the British executive branch was led by a hereditary monarch. While the passage implies that this was not ideal, it does not explicitly state it as a major flaw seen by the Americans. Therefore, this option is not the best choice.

(B) Failing to give women the right to vote: The passage does not mention women's suffrage as a specific flaw of the British government. While the passage does mention that only a few men possessed the right to vote, it does not focus on the exclusion of women. Therefore, this option is not the best choice.

(C) Allowing one of the branches of government to be tied to a hereditary monarch and aristocrats: The passage clearly states that the hereditary monarchy leading the executive branch and the control of the upper house, the House of Lords, by hereditary aristocrats were considered flaws by the Americans. This option directly aligns with the information provided in the passage, making it the best choice.

(D) Failing to outlaw a dictatorship: The passage does not specifically mention the presence or absence of a dictatorship in the British government. It focuses more on the structure and composition of the branches of government. Therefore, this option is not the best choice.

(E) Not distributing land equally among the citizens: The passage does not discuss the distribution of land among citizens as a specific flaw of the British government. Therefore, this option is not the best choice.

In conclusion, according to the passage, the major flaw of the British government seen by the Americans was that one of the branches of government (the executive branch) was tied to a hereditary monarch and aristocrats, as stated in option (C).

The passage describes the Eiffel Tower and its significance, highlighting its initial reception and subsequent recognition as a symbol of Paris. The flaw in the passage lies in the last sentence of the first paragraph, which states, "It stands alone in the center of the city, commanding all viewers to look and marvel at it." This statement presents a key idea that is not explored further in the passage.

Now let's evaluate the other answer options to understand why they are not the correct choice:

(A) It presents unsubstantiated facts: The passage does not present any specific facts that are unsupported or lacking evidence.

(B) It confuses the flow of the paragraph: The last sentence does not disrupt the logical flow of the paragraph. It may be seen as a general statement summarizing the impact and significance of the Eiffel Tower.

(C) It presents the author's personal opinion: While the last sentence expresses an opinion about the tower's commanding presence, it is not necessarily the author's personal opinion. It could be considered a general statement reflecting the tower's overall impact.

(D) It misunderstands a quoted text: There is no quoted text in the passage, so this option is not applicable.

(E) It presents a key idea that is not explored: This is the correct answer. The last sentence introduces the idea that the Eiffel Tower stands alone in the center of the city and commands viewers' attention, but the passage does not provide any further explanation or exploration of this idea.

Therefore, the correct answer is (E) - It presents a key idea that is not explored.

The argument in the passage states that children born in English-speaking countries acquire better English language skills by the age of 5 compared to children born in non-English-speaking countries. It further concludes that if a couple from a non-English-speaking country were to start their family in an English-speaking country and stay there until their children turn at least 5, their children are expected to acquire better English skills than if they had stayed in their home country.

We are asked to find an option that weakens this conclusion the most. Let's analyze each option:

(a) Experts in early language development do not believe that children born in English-speaking countries acquire better skills in English by the age of 5 than children born in non-English-speaking countries.
This option directly contradicts the premise of the argument and, if true, would weaken the conclusion. However, we are looking for the option that weakens the conclusion the most, and this option does not provide any additional information or explanation.

(b) The research mentioned was carried out with only 100 children and is, therefore, statistically unreliable.
This option attacks the reliability of the research mentioned in the passage. If the research is statistically unreliable, then the conclusion based on that research becomes less convincing. However, this option does not address the specific comparison between children born in English-speaking countries and those born in non-English-speaking countries.

(c) The language spoken at home plays a crucial role in a child's early language development.
This option weakens the conclusion by introducing another factor that may influence a child's language development: the language spoken at home. It suggests that even if the family moves to an English-speaking country, if they continue speaking their native language at home, it could impact the child's English language acquisition. This option provides an alternative explanation for the difference in language skills observed between the two groups.

(d) There are some parents from non-English-speaking countries who speak better English than some parents from English-speaking countries.
This option introduces variability within both groups, indicating that language skills are not solely determined by the country of birth. While it challenges the generalization made in the conclusion, it does not specifically weaken the comparison between the two groups of children.

(e. Staying in an English-speaking country gives better exposure to English than staying in a non-English-speaking country, and thus improves one's skills in English.
This option supports the conclusion by providing a reason why children in English-speaking countries might have better English language skills. It does not weaken the argument but rather reinforces it.

Therefore, option (c) weakens the conclusion the most by introducing the importance of the language spoken at home as a crucial factor in a child's early language development, suggesting that the country of residence alone may not be the sole determining factor in language acquisition.

(A) Correct: Due to a change in the sales tax structure last year, fitness equipment costs up to 30% less in Clarktown than in its neighboring towns.- If this statement is true we can say that the people of clarktown are not becoming health conscious as the reasoning provided to hold the conclusion is the sale of health equipment has increased in clarktown but this choice states that the increase in sales is due to low price and people of the neighboring town are maybe buying equipment here in clarktown. This statement presents an alternate cause and weaken the argument.

(B) Incorrect: The sale of health magazines has increased appreciably in Clarktown over the past one year. - This does not weaken the conclusion, it even somewhat strengthens it.

(C) Incorrect: Nutritionists in Clarktown have reported a sharp increase in the cases of obesity that have been reported in Clarktown over the past year. - This option is irrelevant as a sharp increase in obesity does not automatically means a decrease in health-conscious people

(D) Incorrect: The range of fitness equipment available at Clarktown is very limited and some advanced machines are not available at all. - So What, this statement has no effect at the conclusion.

(E) Incorrect: Two athletes, both of whom won gold medals at the Olympics three years ago, are residents of Clarktown. -This choice does not weaken the conclusion.

Information provided:

• "Hook, Line and Sinker" magazine conducted a survey.
• 75% of the magazine's readers want to buy a new fishing-boat during the summer.
• Fishing-boat manufacturers can only produce enough boats to satisfy 30% of total potential buyers.

We are asked to identify a weakness in the evidence provided.

(A) The fishing-boat industry is a highly labor-intensive business.
This answer choice does not weaken the evidence presented. The labor intensity of the fishing-boat industry does not directly relate to the survey results or the boat manufacturers' production capacity.

(B) Fishing-boats are not evenly distributed across the country.
This answer choice does not directly weaken the evidence presented. Uneven distribution of fishing boats does not necessarily indicate a weakness in the survey results or the production capacity of manufacturers.

(C) The number of fishermen who buy fishing-boats has been growing each year for the past six years.
This answer choice does not weaken the evidence. The fact that the number of fishermen buying boats has been growing does not provide any information about the current situation or the percentage of potential buyers satisfied by the manufacturers.

(D) Readers of "Hook, Line and Sinker" magazine are more likely than other consumers to want a fishing-boat.
This answer choice weakens the evidence because it introduces a potential bias in the survey results. If readers of the magazine are more likely than other consumers to want a fishing boat, then the survey results might not accurately represent the general population. The survey's findings may not reflect the overall demand for fishing boats accurately.

(E) "Hook, Line and Sinker" magazine includes both articles about fishing and articles about building fishing-boats.
This answer choice does not weaken the evidence. The inclusion of articles about building fishing boats does not directly affect the survey results or the manufacturers' production capacity.

Therefore, the correct answer is (D). Readers of "Hook, Line and Sinker" magazine being more likely than other consumers to want a fishing-boat weakens the evidence provided by the survey results, as it introduces a potential bias.

Argument summary:
The argument presents a contradiction between the belief that brightly lit cages increase head-pecking among poultry and the results of recent experiments, where commercially reared chickens in brightly lit cages exhibited sleepy behavior instead of increased aggression. The argument suggests that this challenges the belief that visibility due to bright lights is the main cause of head pecking.

We need to find the option that weakens this argument by providing an alternative explanation or a factor that could explain the observed behavior of the commercially reared chickens.

(A) This option provides information about the pecking order and aggressive behavior among young chicks. However, it does not directly address the behavior of commercially reared chickens in brightly lit cages. It does not weaken the argument.

(B) This option explains that head-pecking is the result of high stress levels and can cause harm to chickens. However, it does not provide an alternative explanation for the behavior of commercially reared chickens in brightly lit cages. It does not weaken the argument.

(C) This option states that commercially reared chickens in cages are equipped with blinding glasses that prevent most light from entering their retinas. This information weakens the argument by suggesting an alternative reason for the observed behavior. The lack of visibility due to the blinding glasses could explain why the chickens exhibited sleepy behavior instead of aggression. This option weakens the argument and is the correct answer.

(D) This option introduces a new factor where the commercially reared chickens were more aggressive when allowed to roam freely on the farm. However, this information does not directly relate to their behavior in brightly lit cages. It does not weaken the argument.

(E) This option states that a few chickens exhibited unusually aggressive behavior. However, it does not provide an alternative explanation for the majority of the chickens exhibiting sleepy behavior. It does not weaken the argument.

In conclusion, option C weakens the argument by providing an alternative explanation for the observed behavior of commercially reared chickens in brightly lit cages. The presence of blinding glasses suggests that visibility may not be the primary factor causing aggression or head-pecking.

The statistic provided states that in most European countries, a significant percentage of national football team players are born between January and March. The conclusion drawn from this statistic is that parents with kids born early in the year are more likely to encourage a football career. We need to evaluate whether this conclusion is the best explanation for the statistic.

(A) Of the remaining members, 60% or more tend to be born between the months of April and June.
This option provides additional information about the distribution of birth months among the remaining players. However, it does not explain why there is a higher percentage of players born in the first three months of the year. Therefore, option A does not explain the statistic or the conclusion.

(B) Parents of kids born in the second half of the year have displayed a measurable intent to promote scholarly careers.
This option introduces a different aspect, suggesting that parents of children born in the second half of the year are more likely to encourage scholarly careers. While this information is interesting, it does not directly explain why there is a higher percentage of players born in the first three months of the year. Therefore, option B is not the best explanation.

(C) The age cut-off for kids to try out for a team in most European countries is calculated as on December 31 of any year, and older the kid during trials, greater the chances of getting the right opportunities.
This option provides a clear and logical explanation for the statistic. If the age cutoff for team tryouts is calculated based on the calendar year, children born earlier in the year will be relatively older when they participate in trials compared to children born later in the year. This age advantage may result in greater opportunities for early-born children and increase the likelihood of them pursuing a football career. Thus, option C is the best explanation for the statistic and supports the conclusion.

(D) The school year usually begins in April in most European countries, and many parents encourage students to work on their academics rather than sports during the school year.
While this option provides information about the timing of the school year and parental priorities, it does not directly explain why there is a higher percentage of players born in the first three months of the year. Therefore, option D does not explain the statistic or the conclusion.

(E) During the last 50 years, on average 30% of the kids have been born during the first three months of the year.
This option provides statistical information about the average distribution of births over the last 50 years but does not explain why there is a higher percentage of players born in the first three months of the year. Therefore, option E does not explain the statistic or the conclusion.

In summary, option C is the best explanation because it directly addresses the age cutoff for team tryouts, which creates an advantage for children born earlier in the year. This explanation aligns with the given statistic and supports the conclusion that parents with kids born early in the year are more likely to encourage a football career.

The problem states that toxic bioaccumulation, caused by mercury compounds in unrefined cinnabar ore, is afflicting the majority of workers in the Redstone Mine. The suggestion is to spread chalcedony in the mine to restrict the release of toxins from the cinnabar ore and preserve the workers.

We need to find a statement about chalcedony that strongly supports the success of this suggestion. Let's evaluate each answer choice:

(A) It accumulates in deposits which are concentrated in the mineral veins where cinnabar is found.
This answer choice suggests that chalcedony is found in the same areas where cinnabar is located. If chalcedony accumulates in the same mineral veins as cinnabar, it is likely to come into contact with the cinnabar ore and restrict the release of toxins. This supports the suggestion of spreading chalcedony in the mine, making it the strongest evidence.

(B) It can on some occasions stay inactive in mineral veins for almost five years before it begins to spread.
This answer choice provides information about the timeframe of chalcedony's spread, but it doesn't directly relate to its effectiveness in restricting the release of toxins from cinnabar ore. It doesn't provide strong evidence for the success of the suggestion, so it can be eliminated.

(C) It spreads through an environment more gradually than does cinnabar in most geological settings.
This answer choice compares the spread of chalcedony to cinnabar in general geological settings. While it suggests that chalcedony spreads more gradually, it doesn't specifically address its effectiveness in restricting the release of toxins from cinnabar ore in the Redstone Mine. It is not the strongest evidence, so we can eliminate it.

(D) It does not prevent a few common varieties of cinnabar ore from releasing toxins.
This answer choice states that chalcedony doesn't prevent the release of toxins from a few common varieties of cinnabar ore. If chalcedony is not effective in restricting the release of toxins from these specific varieties, it weakens the case for its overall effectiveness in the mine. This does not provide strong evidence for the success of the suggestion, so it can be eliminated.

(E) It can occasionally damage fish populations by poisoning their gills.
This answer choice mentions a negative impact of chalcedony on fish populations but doesn't directly address its effectiveness in restricting the release of toxins from cinnabar ore in the Redstone Mine. It doesn't provide strong evidence for the success of the suggestion, so it can be eliminated.

Based on the analysis, answer choice (A) provides the strongest evidence that the suggestion of spreading chalcedony in the Redstone Mine will be successful. By accumulating in deposits concentrated in the mineral veins where cinnabar is found, chalcedony is likely to restrict the release of toxins from the cinnabar ore, effectively reducing the toxic bioaccumulation affecting the workers.

The argument suggests that low gasoline prices make consumers more likely to buy larger cars, which consume more fuel, and as a result, U.S. automakers are unwilling to invest in fuel-efficient technologies. The claim is that this reluctance could threaten the industry's future. To support this claim, we need to find a statement that demonstrates potential negative consequences for the industry.

Let's evaluate each option:

(A) A prototype fuel-efficient vehicle, built five years ago, achieves a very high 81 miles per gallon on the highway and 63 in the city, but its materials are relatively costly.
This statement provides information about a fuel-efficient vehicle prototype, but it doesn't directly address the future of the United States automobile industry or the industry's reluctance to pursue fuel-efficient technologies. It doesn't provide support for the claim made in the argument.

(B) Small cars sold by manufacturers in the United States are more fuel-efficient now than before the sudden jump in oil prices in 1973.
This statement suggests that small cars in the United States have become more fuel-efficient over time. While this information is interesting, it doesn't directly address the future of the United States automobile industry or the claim made in the argument. It doesn't provide support for the claim.

(C) Automakers elsewhere in the world have slowed the introduction of fuel-efficient technologies but have pressed ahead with research and development of them in preparation for a predicted rise in world oil prices.
This statement indicates that automakers in other parts of the world have slowed down the introduction of fuel-efficient technologies but continue to invest in research and development of such technologies due to the anticipation of rising oil prices. This supports the claim in the argument by suggesting that the United States automobile industry's reluctance to pursue fuel-efficient technologies could threaten its future, as other countries are preparing for future changes. Therefore, (C) provides the most support for the claim.

(D) There are many technological opportunities for reducing the waste of energy in cars and light trucks through weight, aerodynamic drag, and braking friction.
This statement acknowledges the existence of technological opportunities for reducing energy waste in vehicles but doesn't directly address the future of the United States automobile industry or the claim made in the argument. It doesn't provide support for the claim.

(E) The promotion of mass transit over automobiles as an alternative mode of transportation has encountered consumer resistance that is due in part to the failure of mass transit to accommodate the wide dispersal of points of origin and destinations for trips.
This statement discusses consumer resistance to mass transit and its limitations in accommodating various travel destinations. While it highlights a challenge for promoting mass transit, it doesn't directly address the future of the United States automobile industry or the claim made in the argument. It doesn't provide support for the claim.

In conclusion, option (C) provides the most support for the claim made in the argument about the future of the United States automobile industry.

Let's examine each answer choice and see how it relates to the argument:

(A) Cars run less well on gasoline than they do on gasohol.
If this statement is true, it strengthens the argument because it suggests that gasohol is a better fuel option than gasoline since cars perform better on gasohol.

(B) Since less gasoline is needed with the use of gasohol, an energy shortage is less likely.
This statement strengthens the argument by highlighting one of the benefits of gasohol usage. If less gasoline is needed, it reduces the dependence on fossil fuels and mitigates the risk of an energy shortage.

(C) Cars burn on the average slightly more gasohol per kilometer than they do gasoline.
This statement does not strengthen the argument. If cars burn more gasohol per kilometer compared to gasoline, it suggests that gasohol might not be as fuel-efficient as gasoline, which weakens the argument in favor of greater gasohol usage.

(D) Gasohol is cheaper to produce and hence costs less at the pump than gasoline.
This statement strengthens the argument because it highlights the economic advantage of gasohol. If it is cheaper to produce and costs less at the pump, it provides a strong incentive for consumers to choose gasohol over gasoline.

(E) Burning gasoline adds more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere than plants can remove.
This statement strengthens the argument by emphasizing the environmental advantage of gasohol. If burning gasoline contributes more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere than plants can absorb, it supports the argument that gasohol is a more environmentally friendly fuel option.

Therefore, the answer choice that does not strengthen the argument is (C). Cars burning slightly more gasohol per kilometer weakens the argument in favor of greater gasohol usage.

To determine the most appropriate titles for passages A and B, we need to understand the main themes and focus of each passage:

Passage A:

• This passage discusses how virtual economies in multiplayer online games have developed to the point where virtual goods and currency are traded for real money. It highlights how virtual currency can be traded for real cash and how players are essentially creating wealth through their in-game activities.

Passage B:

• This passage addresses the legal and tax implications of virtual items and currencies. It examines whether virtual items should be taxed and how virtual economies might be treated under current tax law. It discusses the principles of tax policy and doctrine related to virtual goods and currencies.

Given these summaries:

Option A:

• "The Economic Theories of Edward Castronova" does not precisely capture the focus of Passage A, which is more about the real-world implications and discoveries in virtual economies, not just Castronova’s theories.
• "Intellectual Property Rights in Virtual Worlds" is more relevant to the legal aspects of virtual worlds, but Passage B deals more broadly with taxation rather than intellectual property.

Option B:

• "An Economist Discovers New Economic Territory" is an appropriate title for Passage A, as it reflects Castronova’s discovery of a new economic dimension within virtual worlds.
• "Taxing Virtual Property" is an appropriate title for Passage B, as it focuses on the tax issues related to virtual items and currencies.

Option C:

• "The Surprising Growth of Multiplayer Online Games" does not fully capture the economic aspect discussed in Passage A, which is more about virtual currencies and trading.
• "Virtual Reality and the Law" is too broad and does not specifically address the tax aspects covered in Passage B.

Option D:

• "How to Make Money Playing Games" simplifies Passage A’s focus and does not cover the economic discovery aspect as well.
• "Closing Virtual Tax Shelters" implies a specific solution or policy, which does not match the broader discussion of taxation in Passage B.

Option E:

• "A New Economic Paradigm" is too broad and not as specific to the economic discovery described in Passage A.
• "An Untapped Source of Revenue" does not accurately reflect the tax-related focus of Passage B.

Therefore, the most fitting pair of titles that accurately represent the main themes of Passage A and Passage B are:

B. "An Economist Discovers New Economic Territory" “Taxing Virtual Property”

To understand how the phrase “skinning animals” in Passage A relates to “fish pulled from the ocean” in Passage B, we should examine their usage in context.

Passage A:

• “Skinning animals” refers to an activity within a multiplayer online game where players harvest virtual items by killing creatures. This process generates wealth in the game’s virtual economy, which can then be sold for real money.

Passage B:

• “Fish pulled from the ocean” is used metaphorically to compare virtual loot with real-world property. In the context of the passage, it suggests that virtual loot should be treated similarly to real-world items like fish that require effort to obtain and are taxed only upon sale, not during accumulation.

Analysis of Answer Choices:

• (A) The former refers to an activity that generates wealth, whereas the latter refers to an activity that does not generate wealth.

  • This is incorrect because both “skinning animals” and “fish pulled from the ocean” involve activities that generate wealth, but in different contexts (virtual vs. real world).

• (B) The former refers to an activity in an online game, whereas the latter refers to an analogous activity in the real world.

  • This is correct because “skinning animals” refers to an in-game activity, while “fish pulled from the ocean” refers to a real-world activity. Both activities are used to illustrate how items are obtained and how they should be treated under tax law.

• (C) The former, unlike the latter, refers to the production of a commodity that the author of Passage B thinks should be taxed.

  • This is incorrect because “skinning animals” in Passage A doesn’t imply that it should be taxed in Passage B. Passage B suggests that virtual loot (analogous to the real-world commodity) should not be taxed until sold.

• (D) The latter, unlike the former, refers to the production of a commodity that the author of Passage B thinks should be taxed.

  • This is incorrect because both activities are used to discuss the treatment of virtual and real-world commodities, not to highlight different tax treatments.

• (E) Both are used as examples of activities by which game players generate wealth.

  • This is incorrect because the comparison is more about analogous activities in different contexts rather than both being examples of generating wealth.

Thus, the most accurate explanation is:

B. The former refers to an activity in an online game, whereas the latter refers to an analogous activity in the real world.

To determine how Passage A and Passage B differ in their attitudes toward commerce in virtual items, let's analyze the tone and focus of each passage:

Passage A:

• Tone: Passage A, published in 2004, presents an account of Edward Castronova’s observations and discoveries about the virtual economy in multiplayer online games. It highlights the emergence of a bustling virtual economy and the surprising realization that virtual items and currency have real-world value. Castronova is described as being intrigued and excited by this discovery. The passage details how virtual goods are traded for real money, indicating a positive and enthusiastic outlook on the implications of virtual economies.

Passage B:

• Tone: Passage B, from 2007, addresses the legal and tax-related implications of virtual item trading. It explores the complexities of taxing virtual goods and argues that while in-game items should not be taxed until sold, real currency transactions should be taxed. The tone is more analytical and concerned with legal and policy issues. It discusses the need for clear tax policies and does not express excitement or enthusiasm but rather presents a thoughtful analysis of taxation issues.

Comparison:

• Passage A is characterized by intrigue and excitement regarding the discovery of virtual economies and their real-world implications. It focuses on the novel and engaging aspects of virtual currency and its real-world value.
• Passage B is focused on the legal and tax implications of virtual item trading and presents a more cautious and policy-oriented perspective.

Therefore, the correct choice is:

C. intrigued and excited

This option best captures Passage A’s enthusiastic response to the emerging virtual economy and its implications.

To determine the most analogous relationship between the pairs of documents, let’s examine how the titles of Passage A and Passage B relate to each other:

Passage A:

• Content: Discusses the discovery of a virtual economy in online games and the surprising realization of real-world value for virtual items and currency.
• Focus: The focus is on the novel economic phenomenon and the excitement around the discovery of virtual goods having real-world economic significance.

Passage B:

• Content: Addresses the legal and taxation issues related to virtual items, focusing on how to handle the taxation of virtual goods and currency.
• Focus: The focus is on the legal implications and policy discussions regarding virtual economies and their taxation.

Analogy Analysis:

1. (A) “Advances in Artificial Intelligence” “Human Psychology Applied to Robots”

   • This pair discusses advances in technology and its application, which is more about the technological implications rather than a novel discovery followed by its policy implications.

2. (B) “Internet Retailers Post Good Year” “Lawmakers Move to Tax Internet Commerce”

   • This pair reflects the relationship between economic success and regulatory responses, which parallels how Passage A’s discovery of virtual economies relates to Passage B’s discussion of taxation.

3. (C) “New Planet Discovered in Solar System” “Planet or Asteroid: Scientists Debate”

   • This pair shows a discovery followed by debates on classification, which is similar to discovering a new economic phenomenon and then discussing its policy implications.

4. (D) “Biologists Create New Species in Lab” “Artificially Created Life: How Patent Law Applies”

   • This pair involves a novel scientific achievement (creation of a new species) followed by legal considerations (patent law), which closely mirrors the structure of Passage A’s economic discovery and Passage B’s legal discussion.

5. (E) “A Renegade Economist’s Views on Taxation” “Candidate Runs on Unorthodox Tax Plan”

   • This pair features views and proposals related to taxation, not a novel discovery followed by its policy implications.

Conclusion: The most analogous relationship is between:

(D) “Biologists Create New Species in Lab” “Artificially Created Life: How Patent Law Applies”

This pair mirrors the relationship between Passage A and Passage B, where Passage A represents a novel discovery and Passage B deals with the subsequent policy or legal implications of that discovery.

To determine which pair of sources the passages are most likely taken from, we need to analyze the content and style of each passage and match them with the given source options:

Passage A:

• Content: Focuses on the discovery of virtual economies in online games and the realization of real-world value in virtual currency and items.
• Style: Describes the discovery and implications in a way that is accessible to a general audience. It highlights Edward Castronova’s findings in an engaging manner suitable for non-specialists.

Passage B:

• Content: Discusses the taxation of virtual items and currencies within online games, exploring legal and policy implications.
• Style: More technical and policy-oriented, dealing with legal and economic considerations relevant to taxation.

Source Analysis:

1. (A) Passage A: a magazine article addressed to a general audience; Passage B: a law journal article

   • Passage A fits this description because it is engaging and written for a general audience, discussing the discovery in a relatable manner.
   • Passage B fits as a law journal article because it deals with technical aspects of tax policy and legal considerations, which are appropriate for a legal or economic journal.

2. (B) Passage A: a technical journal for economists; Passage B: a magazine article addressed to a general audience

   • Passage A is not technical enough for a specialized journal; it is more suited to a general magazine article.
   • Passage B is too technical and policy-focused for a general magazine article.

3. (C) Passage A: a science-fiction novel; Passage B: a technical journal for economists

   • Passage A is not fictional; it deals with real economic observations.
   • Passage B could be from a technical journal, but Passage A does not fit as a science-fiction novel.

4. (D) Passage A: a law journal article; Passage B: a speech delivered before a legislative body

   • Passage A is not technical or legal enough to be from a law journal.
   • Passage B is more technical and policy-oriented than a speech.

5. (E) Passage A: a speech delivered before a legislative body; Passage B: a science-fiction novel

   • Passage A is not a legislative speech; it is more of an engaging article.
   • Passage B does not fit the style of a science-fiction novel.

Conclusion:

The best match for the passages is (A) Passage A: a magazine article addressed to a general audience; Passage B: a law journal article. Passage A is written in a style suitable for a general audience, while Passage B is detailed and technical, appropriate for a law journal discussing policy and legal implications.