Question 15

The sentence that should be deleted from the passage is Sentence 12.

Sentence 12 contains irrelevant information that does not contribute to the overall understanding of the process described in the passage regarding the changing colors of leaves. The focus of the passage is on the breakdown of chlorophyll and the revealing of colors that were always present, making Sentence 12 extraneous.

A) Sentence 3

Sentence 3 discusses the breakdown of chlorophyll in relation to heat and light and its replacement during summer. This information is relevant as it sets the stage for understanding how and why colors change, making it essential to the passage's theme.

B) Sentence 6

Sentence 6 addresses the concept that no new pigment is produced in the fall, which is a crucial detail that supports the main argument about the visibility of colors hidden by chlorophyll. Therefore, it is relevant and should not be deleted.

C) Sentence 7

Sentence 7 emphasizes that the other colors were always present but hidden by the chlorophyll. This is a key point that reinforces the main idea of the passage, making it relevant to the discussion of leaf color changes.

D) Sentence 12

Sentence 12 introduces an idea that does not directly connect to the explanation of chlorophyll breakdown or the visibility of colors in leaves. It distracts from the central theme of the passage and is therefore deemed irrelevant.

Conclusion

In summary, Sentence 12 is the only choice that introduces extraneous information not aligned with the passage's focus on the chlorophyll breakdown and the revealing of hidden colors in leaves. The other options (Sentences 3, 6, and 7) are integral to understanding the process of color change in foliage and should be retained. Thus, deleting Sentence 12 enhances the clarity and relevance of the passage.