GRE General Test Exams — Official GRE Quantitative Reasoning Practice
1. How many first-year students did not take the placement exam in 1995?
Answer: D
70 first-year students did not take the placement exam in 1995.
In 1995, a total of 70 first-year students did not participate in the placement exam, indicating a significant number of students who opted out of this assessment.
A) 57
This option is incorrect as it underestimates the number of first-year students who did not take the placement exam. The data clearly shows that the actual figure is higher than 57.
B) 63
This choice is also incorrect because it fails to capture the full extent of students who did not take the exam. The correct figure is greater than 63, indicating that more students chose not to participate.
C) 66
While closer to the correct answer, this option still does not accurately reflect the number of first-year students who did not take the placement exam. The correct number exceeds 66, confirming that this option is incorrect.
D) 70
This is the correct answer, as it accurately reflects the number of first-year students who did not take the placement exam in 1995. It is supported by the data indicating that 70 students opted out.
E) 73
This option is incorrect because it overestimates the number of first-year students who did not take the placement exam. The actual number is less than 73, making this choice invalid.
Conclusion
The correct answer is 70 first-year students who did not take the placement exam in 1995, as evidenced by the data. All other options either underestimate or overestimate this figure, confirming that they do not represent the actual number accurately. Thus, option D stands out as the definitive answer.
2. The primary purpose of the passage is to
Answer: B
The primary purpose of the passage is to evaluate an account of the evolution of various types of arthropods.
The passage primarily discusses the evolution of copyright laws as they pertain to theatrical works, emphasizing the changes brought about by the 1856 amendments. This context aligns with evaluating an account of how these laws evolved to protect playwrights and their works.
A) explain how insects and crustaceans differ from chelicerates
This option is incorrect because the passage does not focus on the differences between insects, crustaceans, and chelicerates. Instead, it centers on the evolution of copyright laws relating to theatrical practices, which is unrelated to the biological distinctions among these arthropod groups.
B) evaluate an account of the evolution of various types of arthropods
This option is correct as the passage indirectly touches on the evolution of copyright laws, akin to an evolutionary account in the context of the protection of creative works. The 1856 amendments represent a significant change in how artistic expressions, similar to evolutionary changes in species, adapt to societal needs.
C) illustrate a case of convergent evolution among different types of arthropods
This option is incorrect because the passage does not illustrate convergent evolution or discuss the similarities and adaptations among different arthropod types. The focus is on copyright laws rather than biological evolutionary examples.
D) discuss various physiological features of insects, crustaceans, and chelicerates
This option is incorrect as the passage does not delve into physiological features of these arthropods. Instead, it addresses legal changes affecting playwrights, which is outside the scope of physiological discussion.
E) identify underlying similarities in two contrasting theories regarding the evolution of certain arthropods
This option is incorrect as the passage does not explore similarities or contrasting theories related to arthropod evolution. It specifically discusses the evolution of copyright law rather than biological theories.
Conclusion
In summary, the correct answer is B, as it aligns with the passage's focus on the evolution of copyright laws affecting theatrical works, akin to evaluating an evolutionary account. All other options fail to connect with the main topic of the passage, which is centered on legal changes rather than biological classifications or theories.
3. The primary purpose of the passage is to
Answer: B
The primary purpose of the passage is to dispute a claim about the ethical implications of publishing traditional stories in Ceremony.
The passage primarily addresses the controversy surrounding the publication of traditional Laguna stories in Leslie Marmon Silko's novel Ceremony, particularly focusing on the ethical considerations raised by Paula Gunn Allen regarding the violation of clan secrets.
A) challenge an assertion about whether the stories used in Ceremony can be considered traditional
This option is incorrect because the passage does not primarily challenge the traditional status of the stories. Instead, it emphasizes the ethical implications of their publication and the context surrounding it, rather than questioning their authenticity as traditional narratives.
B) dispute a claim about the ethical implications of publishing traditional stories in Ceremony
This option is correct as the passage directly engages with the ethical concerns raised by Gunn Allen regarding the publication of clan materials. It argues that, while there may be issues with how the stories were sourced, they also exist outside of Ceremony in print, thus complicating the ethical debate.
C) establish that most of the traditional stories used in Ceremony existed in print long before the novel was written
While the passage does mention that many of the stories had been previously published, this is not its primary purpose. The focus is on the ethical implications of Silko's use of these stories, rather than simply establishing their prior existence in print.
D) contest the fidelity of the transcription of the traditional stories used in Ceremony
This option is incorrect as the passage does not primarily contest the accuracy of the transcription. Instead, it highlights the broader ethical issues related to the publication of traditional stories, rather than focusing specifically on transcription fidelity.
E) present two contradictory views of the proper role of traditional stories in novels such as Ceremony
Although the passage does touch on differing perspectives, it does not primarily serve to present two contradictory views. The focus is more on disputing the ethical claims rather than merely presenting opposing opinions.
Conclusion
The passage effectively disputes the ethical concerns raised about the publication of traditional stories in Ceremony by highlighting that these stories existed in print prior to the novel's creation. This context challenges the notion of violating clan secrets and reframes Silko's work as a repatriation of cultural artifacts rather than an ethical breach. Other options fail to capture the passage's main intent, which is centered on ethical implications rather than authenticity or transcription fidelity.
Answer: B
Nine of the 15 throws were less than 90% of the longest throw.
To determine how many throws were less than 90% of the longest throw of 120 ft, we calculate 90% of 120 ft, which is 108 ft. Then, we count how many recorded lengths are below this threshold.
A) Eight
This option suggests that only eight throws were less than 108 ft. Given the calculation, this is incorrect as it underestimates the number of valid throws falling below the specified limit.
B) Nine
This option accurately reflects that nine throws were recorded at lengths less than 108 ft, making it the correct choice. The data indicates that this is the right count of throws under the threshold.
C) Ten
This option overestimates the number of throws below 108 ft. If ten throws were less than 108 ft, that would exceed the actual count of valid recordings, making it incorrect.
D) Eleven
This option also overstates the number of throws below 108 ft. Eleven throws falling under this limit is inaccurate according to the recorded lengths, thus rendering this choice incorrect.
E) Twelve
This option suggests an even higher count of throws less than 108 ft, which contradicts the evidence provided by the recorded lengths. Therefore, this option is also incorrect.
Conclusion
The correct answer is nine, as this accurately represents the number of recorded throws that were less than 90% of the longest throw of 120 ft. All other options fail to reflect the actual counts based on the calculation and the provided data.
Answer: B
The charity must raise $62,000 to reach a total of $65,000 including Company B's contribution.
To achieve a total of $65,000 with Company B's matching contributions, the charity must raise $62,000. This is because Company B contributes $3 for every $1 raised up to $9,000, and $1 for every $1 raised thereafter.
A) $38
Raising $38 would yield a total of $38 + (3 * $38) = $152, which is significantly more than the target of $65,000. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
B) $62,000
By raising $62,000, the charity would receive a contribution of $27,000 from Company B for the first $9,000 raised ($27,000 from B's match) and a contribution of $53,000 for the remaining amount, leading to a total of $65,000. This aligns perfectly with the target.
C) $40
If the charity raises $40, the total contribution would be $40 + (3 * $40) = $160, which also exceeds the required amount of $65,000. Thus, this option is not correct.
E) $42
Raising $42 would result in a total of $42 + (3 * $42) = $168, again far exceeding the target of $65,000. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
G) $49
If the charity raises $49, the total would be $49 + (3 * $49) = $196, which is much more than the required total of $65,000. Hence, this option is also incorrect.
Conclusion
The correct answer is $62,000 because it allows the charity to reach the exact target of $65,000 when combined with Company B's contributions. All other options result in totals that far exceed the required amount, making them invalid choices.
Answer: D
The relationship cannot be determined.
The relationship between Quantity A and Quantity B cannot be determined without additional information about the dimensions of triangle ABC and the circle in which it is inscribed.
A) Quantity A is greater.
This option cannot be confirmed without knowing the specific dimensions of triangle ABC. The area of the triangle could be significantly smaller or larger than the area of the circle depending on the size of the triangle relative to the circle.
B) Quantity B is greater.
Similar to Option A, it is impossible to assert that the area of the circle is definitively greater than the area of triangle ABC without further details. The triangle could occupy a large portion of the circle's area, making this option invalid without additional context.
C) The two quantities are equal.
While it is conceivable that the areas could be equal under specific conditions, there is no definitive evidence to support this without clear measurements. Therefore, this option cannot be affirmed without more data.
D) The relationship cannot be determined.
This is the correct choice, as the relationship between the areas of triangle ABC and the circle is contingent on their respective dimensions, which are not provided. Without this information, no comparison can be accurately made.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the correct answer is that the relationship cannot be determined, as we lack specific information about the dimensions of triangle ABC and the inscribed circle. This ambiguity prevents us from concluding whether one area is greater than, less than, or equal to the other, rendering all other options invalid.
Answer: D
The Holy People in Navajo sacred narratives do not act as paragons when they teach.
In Navajo sacred narratives, the Holy People serve as complex figures who impart lessons through both their mistakes and successes, rather than embodying idealized moral perfection.
A) agents
While the Holy People can be seen as agents of teaching, they do not strictly conform to a role that only involves delivering messages or directives. Their actions illustrate that learning can occur through a spectrum of experiences, not just through ideal behavior.
B) arbiters
The term arbiters suggests a role of judgment or decision-making, which does not fully encapsulate the teaching method of the Holy People. They influence understanding through relatable narratives rather than through a formal adjudicative process.
C) defenders
Defenders imply a role that would protect or uphold certain ideals. However, the teachings of the Holy People include their own failures, indicating that they do not merely defend an infallible standard but rather reflect on their shortcomings.
D) paragons
The Holy People do not act as paragons because they do not represent flawless models of behavior. Instead, their teachings often stem from their imperfections, suggesting that wisdom can arise from failure as well as success.
E) ethicists
Although the Holy People convey ethical lessons, the term ethicists implies a structured and formal approach to morality. Their teachings are more nuanced and diverse, showcasing a broader range of human experience rather than strict ethical guidelines.
F) exemplars
Exemplars would suggest that the Holy People are perfect examples to be followed. However, their narratives reveal that they learn and grow from their mistakes, indicating that they do not serve solely as flawless role models.
Conclusion
The Holy People in Navajo sacred narratives are not paragons because they teach valuable lessons through their imperfections, demonstrating that moral guidance can emerge from both successes and failures. All other options fail to grasp the essence of their role, which is grounded in the complexity of human experience rather than an unattainable ideal.
Answer: B
The author presents the interviews with a mostly dispassionate tone.
The writing predominantly reflects a dispassionate tone, which indicates a neutral and objective approach to the interviews conducted with political adversaries.
A) laudatory
Laudatory suggests a tone of praise and commendation, which contradicts the context of the author’s efforts to understand opposing viewpoints. The author’s use of sarcasm would not align with a tone that is intended to laud or celebrate the subjects of the interviews.
B) dispassionate
Dispassionate is the correct choice as it captures the objective and impartial nature of the author’s writing. Although the author employs sarcasm, the primary tone remains dispassionate, allowing for a fair representation of the interviews without emotional bias.
C) exasperated
Exasperated conveys a sense of frustration or annoyance, which does not accurately reflect the author’s intention to engage with political adversaries. The use of sarcasm does not imply exasperation, but rather a critique of their viewpoints while maintaining a level of detachment.
D) hectoring
Hectoring indicates a tone that is domineering or bullying, which is inconsistent with the author’s approach of trying to understand different perspectives. The author’s effort to interview political adversaries suggests a willingness to engage rather than intimidate.
E) caustic
Caustic describes a tone that is severely critical or sarcastic, which does not align with the overall intent of the author’s writing. While sarcasm is present, the primary tone aimed at understanding the interviews remains dispassionate rather than overtly harsh or biting.
Conclusion
The correct answer is dispassionate, as it effectively describes the author's main tone in presenting the interviews, despite moments of sarcasm. All other options either misrepresent the author’s intent or imply a tone that does not align with the objective nature of the interviews conducted.
Answer: D
Coagulation factors are useful proteins whose simple names (many are known only by Roman numerals) belie their importance and the specificity of their roles in the thinning and clotting of blood.
The term "belie" indicates that the simple names of coagulation factors do not accurately represent their true significance and specific functions in blood coagulation.
A) nullify
This option suggests that the names would cancel out or negate the importance of coagulation factors. However, this is not accurate, as the names do not undermine their importance; they simply fail to convey it.
B) obviate
Choosing "obviate" implies that the names would prevent the recognition of the factors' importance. This is incorrect because the names do not eliminate the need for understanding their roles; they merely simplify them without providing full context.
C) mitigate
"Mitigate" would mean that the names lessen the importance of coagulation factors. This is not the case, as the names do not reduce their significance; rather, they obscure the complexity of their functions.
D) belie
This option accurately reflects that the simple names of coagulation factors give a misleading impression regarding their true importance and specific roles, making it the correct choice.
E) mask
While "mask" could imply that the names cover up the importance, it does not convey the nuance that the names are misleading in a way that "belie" does. Thus, it is less precise in describing the relationship.
F) accentuate
"Accentuate" suggests that the simple names highlight or emphasize the importance of coagulation factors, which contradicts the intended meaning that they fail to do so. Therefore, it is incorrect.
Conclusion
The correct answer, "belie," effectively captures the idea that the simple names of coagulation factors misrepresent their significance and the specificity of their roles. All other options fail to accurately convey this concept, either by suggesting negation, prevention, or reduction of importance, which do not align with the intended meaning.
10. x and y are integers, 0 < x < y, and x² + y^2 is even. Which of the following integers must be even?
Answer: B
x + y must be even.
Since x and y are integers and the sum x² + y² is even, both x and y must be either both even or both odd. This implies that their sum, x + y, will also be even.
A) xy
The product xy can be either even or odd depending on the parity of x and y. If both x and y are odd, then xy is odd, and if both are even, then xy is even. Therefore, xy does not necessarily have to be even.
B) x + y
The sum x + y is indeed even. Given that both x and y must be either even or odd for x² + y² to be even, their sum will always yield an even result regardless of their individual values.
C) y - x
The difference y - x can also be either even or odd. If both x and y are odd, y - x will be even; however, if both are even, y - x will still be even. Thus, y - x does not have to be consistently even across all scenarios.
D) x² + y
The expression x² + y can be even or odd depending on the parity of x and y. If x is odd and y is odd, then x² is odd, making x² + y odd. Conversely, if both are even, then x² + y is even. Therefore, this option does not guarantee an even result.
Conclusion
The only option that must be even is x + y, as it is the direct result of the parity conditions established by the problem. All other options can vary between even and odd based on the specific values of x and y, making them unreliable as definitive answers.