Question 16·Easy·Command of Evidence
Results of Footprint Analysis for Two Sets of Theropod Tracks
| Tracks | Estimated footprint length (centimeters) | Average stride length (meters) | Estimated mean speed (meters per second) |
|---|---|---|---|
| La Torre 6A | 32.8 | 5.23 | 6.5–10.3 |
| La Torre 6B | 28.9 | 5.57 | 8.8–12.4 |
The table shows data from paleontologist Angélica Torices and colleagues’ 2021 study of two sets of dinosaur tracks preserved in a fossilized lake bed in Spain. The tracks, referred to as La Torre 6A and La Torre 6B, were left by two individual theropods (dinosaurs that walked on two legs). The team’s findings suggest that of the two theropods, the one that left the La Torre 6B tracks had a higher maximum mean speed, ______
Which choice most effectively uses data from the table to complete the statement?
For table and chart questions, start by identifying exactly which row or category the question is about (here, the faster dinosaur with the higher maximum mean speed). Then compare only the specific columns mentioned in the question (footprint length and stride length), deciding whether each value is larger or smaller. Finally, translate those comparisons into the wording of the answer choices, checking that both parts of the choice match the data before you decide.
Hints
Find which tracks belong to the faster dinosaur
First, look only at the "Estimated mean speed" column. Which set of tracks (La Torre 6A or La Torre 6B) has the higher maximum value in the speed range?
Compare footprint lengths only
After you know which tracks are from the faster dinosaur, compare the footprint lengths for La Torre 6A and La Torre 6B. Is the faster dinosaur’s footprint length number larger or smaller?
Compare stride lengths only
Now compare the average stride lengths for the two track sets. Is the faster dinosaur’s stride length number larger or smaller? Then find the answer choice that matches both comparisons at once.
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify which dinosaur was faster
Look at the "Estimated mean speed" column for both sets of tracks.
- La Torre 6A: maximum of 10.3 meters per second
- La Torre 6B: maximum of 12.4 meters per second
Because , the dinosaur that left the La Torre 6B tracks had the higher maximum mean speed. The question is asking how this faster dinosaur’s footprint and stride compare to the other dinosaur’s.
Compare the footprint lengths
Now compare the "Estimated footprint length" values for La Torre 6A and La Torre 6B.
- La Torre 6A footprint: 32.8 cm
- La Torre 6B footprint: 28.9 cm
Since , the dinosaur that left the La Torre 6B tracks had a shorter footprint than the one that left the La Torre 6A tracks.
Compare the average stride lengths and match the description
Next, compare the "Average stride length" values.
- La Torre 6A stride: 5.23 m
- La Torre 6B stride: 5.57 m
Since , the La Torre 6B dinosaur had a longer average stride than the La Torre 6A dinosaur.
Putting both comparisons together: the faster dinosaur (La Torre 6B) had a shorter footprint and a longer average stride. This matches answer choice C) a shorter footprint, and a longer average stride.