ParadoxDiff: Easy
Logic Breakdown
Passage Summary: Trees in harsh, rocky environments live much longer than trees growing in lush, comfortable forests.
Reasoning: Cliff-dwelling cedars are stunted and nutrient-starved but live over 500 years, whereas forest cedars have plenty of resources but rarely reach 400 years.
Analysis: The paradox here is that the 'better' environment for growth seems to be the 'worse' environment for longevity. We need a piece of information that explains why forest life is more precarious or why cliff life is safer for an old tree. Maybe forest trees face threats like fire, logging, or fungal diseases that don't reach the isolated cliff faces. Look for an answer that introduces a survival advantage unique to the cliff or a specific danger unique to the forest.
Reasoning: Cliff-dwelling cedars are stunted and nutrient-starved but live over 500 years, whereas forest cedars have plenty of resources but rarely reach 400 years.
Analysis: The paradox here is that the 'better' environment for growth seems to be the 'worse' environment for longevity. We need a piece of information that explains why forest life is more precarious or why cliff life is safer for an old tree. Maybe forest trees face threats like fire, logging, or fungal diseases that don't reach the isolated cliff faces. Look for an answer that introduces a survival advantage unique to the cliff or a specific danger unique to the forest.
Passage Stimulus
Passage Redacted
Unlock Full Passage1.Which one of the following, if true, most helps to explain the difference in the ages of the cedars on cliff faces and those in forests?
Correct Answer
B
If forest fires are relatively frequent but cannot reach cliff faces, forest cedars are routinely killed before reaching great age, while cliff cedars are protected and thus can live past 500 years. This directly resolves the age discrepancy.
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