hard · SAT Reading & Writing
Research into the effects of microplastics on marine zooplankton has revealed complex physiological responses. [Initial laboratory studies showed that zooplankton ingesting plastic beads experienced reduced foraging efficiency; however, later field observations indicated that some species could distinguish between plastic and organic particles under natural light.] This suggests that laboratory conditions may overestimate the impact of plastic pollution by failing to replicate the visual cues available in the ocean.
Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion as a whole?
- It presents a series of findings that lead to a reconsideration of a previous scientific conclusion.
- It provides evidence that plastic pollution has no impact on marine zooplankton in natural environments.
- It explains the chemical process that allows organic particles to emit light in the ocean.
- It argues that zooplankton prefer eating plastic beads over organic particles when in laboratory settings.
Sign up free to see the explanation and track your rank →
More SAT Reading & Writing practice
- The use of bioluminescence in marine organisms, such as the deep-sea anglerfish, serves…
- In her 1977 book 'On Photography', Susan Sontag argues that the act of taking a picture…
- The painter Mary Cassatt is often celebrated for her depictions of the private lives of…
- Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
- The study of deep-sea hydrothermal vents has revealed a unique ecosystem that does not…
- Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
- The following text is from a literary analysis of the poet Emily Dickinson. Dickinson's…
- Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
All Reading & Writing questions · SAT study guide · SAT glossary · SAT flashcards