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Practice Reading: Multiple Choice, Multiple Answers ID: #36498 The controversial concept
Instructions ›
Read the text and answer the question by selecting all the correct responses. You will need to select more than one response.
The controversial concept of terraforming, or changing a planet’s atmosphere to make it more habitable for humans, is still no more than a theoretical debate. However, the most recent data from two American Mars Rovers suggest that the terraforming of Mars may be more feasible than previously thought. The rovers found evidence of stratification patterns and cross-bedding in rock on the edges of craters, as well as chlorine and bromine, suggestive of a large body of saltwater. If Mars once held water, it is possible that its atmosphere was at one time somewhat similar to Earth’s. Even if this theory were true, however, scientists would have to prevent a recurrence of the desiccation of the Martian atmosphere once it is made habitable, as well as endeavor to preserve any extant life. Of course, until a reliable method of transporting humans to Mars is developed, any possibility of terraforming is mere conjecture.

It can be inferred from the passage that the author would be most likely to agree with which of the following statements?

* Click on the correct answers

Result:

AI explanationShows the answer. Tap to open.
Option 1: "Whether conditions on Mars are conducive to human habitation is not the only issue that limits realistic consideration of terraforming."

Explanation: The text discusses various challenges related to terraforming Mars, including the need to prevent the desiccation of the Martian atmosphere and the importance of preserving any existing life. This indicates that the author acknowledges multiple factors beyond just the conditions for human habitation that complicate the feasibility of terraforming.

Option 2: "If we terraform Mars, it will be important to think about the long-term effects of changing a planet’s climate."

Explanation: The passage emphasizes the necessity of considering the long-term implications of terraforming, particularly the need to prevent the recurrence of atmospheric desiccation. This aligns with the idea that long-term effects must be taken into account when altering a planet's climate.

Option 3: "It's highly likely, according to recent data, that there is, or was at one time, life on Mars."

Explanation: While the text mentions the possibility of past water on Mars, it does not assert that there is or was life on Mars. The statement is too strong and lacks direct support from the text, which only suggests the potential for a habitable atmosphere.

Option 4: "The Mars rovers gave several suggestions."

Explanation: The text states that the rovers found evidence but does not mention any specific suggestions made by them. This option misrepresents the information provided in the passage, which focuses on findings rather than suggestions.

Option 5: "Scientists could have prevented a recurrence of the desiccation."

Explanation: The text implies that preventing desiccation is a challenge that scientists would face, rather than suggesting that it could have been prevented. This option misinterprets the author's stance on the feasibility of managing the Martian atmosphere.

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