Question 50

Since salamanders are amphibians and all amphibians are cold-blooded, salamanders are cold-blooded.

This statement demonstrates sound reasoning as it logically connects the classification of salamanders as amphibians to their physiological trait of being cold-blooded, based on the established definition of amphibians.

A) Since ocean temperature in the summer is usually 75 degrees, the water will be about 75 degrees when we go to the beach this summer.

This statement lacks sound reasoning because it makes a generalization about ocean temperatures based solely on a seasonal average, ignoring factors such as location, weather variations, and other influencing conditions that might affect the actual temperature during a specific visit.

B) Since every child I babysit likes to play with blocks, all children must like playing with blocks.

This statement exemplifies a hasty generalization, as it draws a broad conclusion about all children based on the limited experience of the speaker. It fails to account for individual differences and preferences among children.

C) Since John and Dane are on the track team together, both must also be good sprinters.

This statement is flawed reasoning because being on the same team does not inherently imply that both individuals possess the same level of skill. It overlooks the possibility of varying abilities among team members.

D) Since salamanders are amphibians and all amphibians are cold-blooded, salamanders are cold-blooded.

This statement is a clear example of sound reasoning. It follows logical deductive reasoning based on established biological classifications, making it a valid conclusion that aligns with the definitions provided.

Conclusion

The correct answer, D, is definitively right as it employs a logical structure that is based on factual classifications within biology. The other options fail to demonstrate sound reasoning due to their reliance on generalizations or assumptions that do not hold true under scrutiny. Thus, option D stands out as the only statement that effectively exemplifies sound reasoning.