Question 49·Easy·Inferences
Maple trees rely on wind to disperse their seeds. Observations show that maple trees growing in open fields produce samaras (winged seeds) with longer wings than those growing in dense forests. Researchers propose that this trait helps the seeds travel greater distances in areas where winds are stronger. Based on this information, the researchers most likely predict that maple trees in consistently windy environments will _____
Which choice most logically completes the text?
For inference and prediction questions like this, first restate the key observation and the explanation the passage gives (what trait is linked to what benefit in what environment). Then, when asked what researchers would “most likely predict,” extend that same pattern to the new situation—don’t introduce new ideas. Finally, eliminate answer choices that contradict the passage’s logic (for example, choices that would reduce the benefit the researchers just described), and select the one that maintains and applies the same cause-and-effect relationship.
Hints
Focus on the cause-and-effect
Look closely at how the passage connects wind strength, wing length, and how far seeds travel. What cause-and-effect relationship do the researchers suggest?
Use the existing pattern
Trees in one type of environment show one version of the trait, and trees in another environment show a different version. How does that pattern change with stronger winds?
Eliminate traits that work against the goal
The researchers think the trait helps seeds travel greater distances. Which answer choices would actually prevent seeds from traveling far on the wind?
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify the key observation
First, restate the main factual observation: the passage says that maple trees in open fields (where winds tend to be stronger) have samaras with longer wings than maple trees in dense forests.
Understand the researchers’ explanation
The researchers propose that the longer wings help the seeds travel greater distances in areas where winds are stronger. So they are connecting:
- Environment: stronger wind
- Trait: longer wings
- Benefit: seeds travel farther (better dispersal).
Translate this into a prediction
The question asks what the researchers would most likely predict for maple trees in environments that are consistently windy. Based on their explanation, they would expect trees in strong-wind environments to show more of the helpful trait that improves seed travel in wind, not less of it.
Match the prediction to the answer choice
Now check each option for a trait that fits the pattern “stronger winds → trait that helps seeds ride the wind farther.” Choices A, B, and C all describe traits that would reduce wind-based dispersal (wings breaking off, avoiding wind, or heavy seeds that drop), which contradicts the researchers’ idea. Only choice D matches the predicted pattern by having seeds with longer wings that can better use strong winds, so the answer is “produce seeds with longer wings to take advantage of stronger winds.”