3. What assumption does the author of the passage make?
Answer: D
Readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research.
The author assumes that readers may not typically connect the Department of Energy with research on algae, which is a relatively niche scientific area. This assumption underlines the need to explain the relevance of such funding.
A) Gases produced by algae will be cheaper to produce than other gases.
This option is incorrect because the passage does not address cost comparisons between gases produced by algae and those produced by other methods. The focus is solely on the potential of hydrogen production from algae, without mentioning economic factors.
B) The Department of Energy is already using hydrogen-producing algae as a source of energy.
This option is incorrect as the passage does not state that the Department of Energy is currently using hydrogen-producing algae. Instead, it discusses ongoing research aimed at the future potential of using algae for energy.
C) Mutant versions of algae will not be capable of the process of photosynthesis.
This option is incorrect because the passage explicitly states that the mutant versions of algae still undergo photosynthesis while producing more hydrogen gas. There is no implication that these mutants would not be capable of photosynthesis.
D) Readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research.
This option is correct as the passage suggests that the funding for algae research by the Department of Energy might surprise readers. The author implies that a connection between the two is not commonly recognized, which supports the overall argument regarding the significance of this research.
Conclusion
The assumption that readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research is supported by the passage's context, which aims to highlight the unexpected nature of such funding. In contrast, the other options fail to align with the information provided, focusing instead on aspects not discussed in the passage. Thus, Option D stands out as the only valid assumption made by the author.