SAT Reading & Writing · Command of Evidence (quantitative)
A gardener recorded the average height of the same variety of plant under two light conditions after six weeks.
A gardener recorded the average height of the same variety of plant under two light conditions after six weeks.
| Light condition | Average height |
|---|---|
| 6 hours/day | 18 cm |
| 10 hours/day | 24 cm |
Which choice most effectively uses the data to support the claim that plants in the longer-light condition were taller on average?
| Light condition | Average height |
|---|---|
| 6 hours/day | 18 cm |
| 10 hours/day | 24 cm |
Which choice most effectively uses the data to support the claim that plants in the longer-light condition were taller on average?
Answer and explanation
Answer: A: Plants receiving 10 hours of light averaged 6 cm taller than those receiving 6 hours.
The claim specifically requires a comparison between the two light conditions, and A supplies exactly that: a 6 cm difference favoring the longer-light group. B and C each report a detail about only one condition or a background fact, neither of which establishes a comparison between the two groups. D is true of both groups but doesn't address which one grew taller.
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