1. What is the main idea conveyed in the passage?
A. Humpback whales are commonly found in the waters near Washington.
B. Humpback whale populations have rebounded after nearly being eradicated. Correct
C. The author has never encountered this specific humpback whale before.
D. Both cameras and harpoons are utilized for hunting humpback whales.
Explanation
The main idea of the passage revolves around the recovery of humpback whale populations. It highlights the historical decline due to heavy hunting, the recognition of individual whales, and the positive impact of the whaling ban on their recovery. The author's experience observing a mother humpback and her calf serves to emphasize the successful rebound of humpback whale populations. Therefore, option B, 'Humpback whale populations have rebounded after nearly being eradicated,' best encapsulates the central theme of the passage.
2. For which of the following situations would this advertisement be useful?
A. A St. Louis resident's water heater just stopped working. Correct
B. A Kansas City business office has a problem with mold spores in its ventilation system.
C. A homeowner in Detroit wants to have a new shower installed.
D. A commercial builder needs electrical work performed for a national chain of restaurants.
Explanation
This advertisement would be most useful for a St. Louis resident whose water heater just stopped working. The advertisement specifically mentions specializing in home air, water, and heat problems, making it relevant for residential HVAC issues. Since the company serves the St. Louis and Kansas City areas only, it would not be suitable for situations in Detroit or for commercial electrical work in a national chain of restaurants. Mold spores in a ventilation system of a business office in Kansas City do not fall under the services advertised by this company.
3. What can be inferred about the writer from the evidence provided in the passage?
A. No competitions exist for the best mustache.
B. The writer enjoys having a beard. Correct
C. Mustaches are not as easily styled as beards.
D. The writer is a professional barber.
Explanation
The correct answer is B. The passage highlights the writer's appreciation for beards, mentioning the various styles and adornments that can be done with a beard. There is no direct evidence in the passage to support choices A, C, or D. The fact that the writer discusses the versatility and possibilities for styling a beard implies a personal enjoyment of having a beard.
4. What is a counterclaim to the argument presented in the passage?
A. Dyeing a beard pink is a common trend.
B. Growing a beard offers a limited range of styles compared to a mustache.
C. The beard is a passing trend that will eventually fade out.
D. Beards may pose risks in certain professional occupations. Correct
Explanation
The passage argues in favor of the superiority of beards over mustaches, highlighting the versatility and styling options of beards. Choice D provides a counterclaim by suggesting that beards may be hazardous in certain professional lines of work. This counterargument challenges the notion that beards are always superior by pointing out potential risks associated with them in specific job environments.
5. What is the purpose of the passage above?
A. To analyze
B. To inform Correct
C. To compare
D. To recommend
Explanation
The passage serves the purpose of informing the reader about the composition of fourteen-carat gold, explaining that it is a combination of gold and another metal to increase its hardness. This information is presented in a straightforward manner, aiming to educate the reader rather than analyze, compare, or recommend anything. Therefore, the correct answer is 'To inform.'