Difficulty: Hard

Average Score: 20%

Read the passage(s) below and answer the question on the basis of what is stated or implied in the passage(s) and in any introductory material that may be provided.
Passage
During the process of photosynthesis, algae produce a small amount of hydrogen gas. Recently, microbiologists funded by the Department of Energy figured out how to create mutant versions of algae that generate much more hydrogen. You are probably wondering why the Department of Energy is funding this research. The answer is that the hydrogen produced by algae could one day be used to provide energy to entire cities.

What assumption does the author of the passage make?

Rationale

Readers do not associate the Department of Energy with algae research.

The author implies that there is a disconnect between readers and the association of the Department of Energy with algae research, as the focus is on influencers and their readership rather than established entities in energy research. This assumption suggests that the audience may not be aware of the Department's involvement in such innovative areas.

A (Gases produced by algae will be cheaper to produce than other gases.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice introduces a specific prediction about cost that is not addressed in the passage. The author does not provide any information or evidence regarding the pricing of gases produced by algae compared to others, making this assumption unfounded within the context of the text.

B (The Department of Energy is already using hydrogen-producing algae as a source of energy.) YOUR ANSWER

The passage does not make any claims about the current practices of the Department of Energy concerning hydrogen-producing algae. This option assumes a specific application of algae that is not mentioned or implied in the text, thus lacking support from the provided material.

C (Mutant versions of algae will not be capable of the process of photosynthesis.) YOUR ANSWER

This choice speculates about the capabilities of mutant algae, which is completely unrelated to the main themes of the passage. The author does not discuss any characteristics of mutant algae or their photosynthetic abilities, making this assumption irrelevant to the content provided.

Conclusion

The author’s assumption centers on the perception of the Department of Energy's engagement in algae research, suggesting that readers may not connect this governmental body with such innovative scientific efforts. The other options present assumptions that are either unsupported or irrelevant to the themes explored in the passages, highlighting the importance of identifying the central focus of the author's argument.

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