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1

Explanation for Correct Answer D :

Choice (D) is correct. Diversity is the condition of having variety.

Universal describes something that occurs everywhere or includes

all people. The sentence indicates that Barbara Braveboy-Locklear

has performed in a variety of settingscollege theaters, powwows,

and backyardsso it makes sense to describe these settings as

diverse. Further, the fact that Braveboy-Locklears stories have

appealed to people in these diverse settings highlights, or brings

attention to, storytellings universal appealthe fact that

storytelling is enjoyed by people everywhere.

Explanation for Incorrect Answer A :

Choice (A) is incorrect. In this context, formality is primness or

rigidly ceremonious behavior. Diminishing describes something

that is dwindling, or becoming gradually less in size or importance.

The sentence indicates that Barbara Braveboy-Locklear has

performed in a variety of settings, including college theaters,

powwows, and backyards. A powwow is an American Indian

ceremony, but there is no reason to believe that all of these settings

would be noted for their striking formalityindeed, a performance

in a backyard likely would be casual rather than rigidly ceremonious.

Further, it does not make sense to suggest that the formality of these

settings highlights, or brings attention to, the diminishing appeal

of storytelling; there is no logical connection between the formality

of the settings and the appeal of storytelling.

Explanation for Incorrect Answer B :

View Answers and ExplanationsBack to Score Report

Online - Practice Test #3

Lumbee story teller Barbara Brav eboy -Locklear has performed in college theaters,

powwows, and backy ards, settings whose striking ------- highlights the ------- appeal

that story telling holds.

(A) formality . . diminishing

(B) v ariety . . insignificant

(C) uniformity . . ubiquitous

(D) div ersity . . univ ersal

(E) incongruity . . triv ial

ANSWERS AND EXPLANATIONS

Test Sections

Sect ion 1

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Sect ion 1 0




Choice (B) is incorrect. Variety is the state of having different

forms or types. Something that is insignificant is unimportant or

not significant. The sentence indicates that Barbara Braveboy-

Locklear has performed in different settings, including college

theaters, powwows, and backyards, so it makes sense to refer to the

variety of settings in which she has performed. However, it is illogical

to state that the variety of settings highlights, or brings attention

to, the insignificant appeal of storytelling. Further, if storytelling

had little to no appeal, it is unlikely that Braveboy-Locklear would be

asked to perform in so many places.

Explanation for Incorrect Answer C :

Choice (C) is incorrect. Uniformity is the state of being uniform, or

having no variety or variables. Something that is ubiquitous is

widespread or existing everywhere. The sentence indicates that

Barbara Braveboy-Locklear has performed in a variety of settings

college theaters, powwows, and backyardsso it does not make

sense to describe these settings as uniform. Further, Braveboy-

Locklears performances in different settings might be said to

highlight, or bring attention to, storytellings ubiquitous appeal, but

it does not make sense to suggest that performances in uniform

settings highlight the fact that storytelling is appealing everywhere.

Explanation for Incorrect Answer E :

Choice (E) is incorrect. Incongruity is the state of being

incongruous, or not harmonious or not conforming. Something that

is trivial is of little worth or importance. Although the sentence

indicates that Barbara Braveboy-Locklear has performed in different

settings, including college theaters, powwows, and backyards, it

does not make much sense to say that these settings would be noted

for their striking incongruitythere is no reason to believe the

settings are not harmonious and there is no indication that the

settings do not conform to some standard. Further, there is no reason

to believe that the incongruous settings highlight, or bring attention

to, the trivial appeal of storytelling; there is no direct connection

between inharmonious settings and the appeal of storytelling.

2

Explanation for Correct Answer C :

Thomas Edison, who found collaboration essential, nev er fit the popular stereoty pe

of the ------- inv entor, struggling alone in a garret.

(A) surly

(B) cowardly

(C) solitary

(D) weary

(E) suspicious




Choice (C) is correct. Someone who is solitary is alone, without

companions. The sentence suggests that Thomas Edison often

collaborated, or worked jointly, with others, since he thought

collaboration was essential, or necessary. As a result, Edison did

not fit the popular stereotypethe image many people hadof an

inventor struggling alone in a garret. Rather than being solitary and

working alone, Edison worked with others.


Choice (A) is incorrect. Someone who is surly is irritably sullen or

churlish in mood. The sentence indicates that many people think an

inventor [struggles] alone in a garretthat is, the popular

stereotype is that inventors work alone, removed from the company

of others. Therefore, the word that fits the blank should describe

someone who is alone. Someone who is sullen and irritable might not

be pleasant to be around, but the term surly does not necessarily

describe someone who is alone. Rather, the term solitary describes

such a person.


Choice (B) is incorrect. Someone who is cowardly shows

disgraceful fear or timidity. The sentence indicates that many people

think an inventor [struggles] alone in a garretthat is, the popular



someone who is alone. The term cowardly does not necessarily

describe someone who is alone; rather, the term solitary describes

such a person.

Explanation for Incorrect Answer D :

Choice (D) is incorrect. Someone who is weary is exhausted in

strength, vigor, or endurance. The sentence indicates that many

people think an inventor [struggles] alone in a garretthat is, the

popular stereotype is that inventors work alone, removed from the

company of others. Therefore, the word that fits the blank should

describe someone who is alone. Someone who struggles with

something might become exhausted in vigor, but the term weary

does not necessarily describe someone who is alone. Rather, the term

solitary describes such a person.


Choice (E) is incorrect. Someone who is suspicious is distrustful or

disposed to suspect others. The sentence indicates that many people

think an inventor [struggles] alone in a garretthat is, the popular



someone who is alone. The term suspicious does not necessarily

describe someone who is alone; rather, the term solitary describes

such a person.



3

Explanation for Correct Answer B :

Choice (B) is correct. "Placid" means calm or content. To be

"outraged" is to have a feeling of righteous anger. The sentence

indicates that Claudia is "adept at controlling her temper," so the

missing words should have something to do with the suppression of

anger. Further, since the sentence states that Claudia "can seem" one

way when she "is actually" something else, the missing words should

have opposite meanings. Being calm is the opposite of being angry, so

the terms "placid" and "outraged" logically complete the sentence.


Choice (A) is incorrect. "Perturbed" means upset or disturbed. To be

"furious" is to be extremely angry. The sentence indicates that

Claudia is "adept at controlling her temper," so the missing words

should have something to do with the suppression of anger. The term

"furious" fits in the second blank, because Claudia could be

extremely angry even when she is controlling her temper. However,

the sentence states that Claudia "can seem" one way when she "is

actually" something else, so the missing words should have opposite

meanings. The term "perturbed" does not mean the opposite of the

term furious, and it is somewhat illogical to say that someone

seems quite upset when she is actually very angry.


Choice (C) is incorrect. The terms "serene" and "tranquil" both

describe a very calm, unruffled state. The sentence indicates that

Claudia is "adept at controlling her temper," so the missing words

should have something to do with the suppression of anger. The term

serene fits the first blank because Claudia might control her temper

so well that she seems unruffled. However, the sentence states that

Claudia "can seem" one way when she "is actually" something else, so

the missing words should have opposite meanings. The terms

"serene" and "tranquil" are synonyms, not opposites, and it is

somewhat illogical to say that someone seems serene when she is

actually tranquil.


Choice (D) is incorrect. In this context, "stoic" means showing no

Claudia is so adept at controlling her temper that she can seem quite ------- when

she is actually -------.

(A) perturbed . . furious

(B) placid . . outraged

(C) serene . . tranquil

(D) stoic . . ebullient

(E) ambiv alent . . reticent




Choice (D) is incorrect. In this context, "stoic" means showing no

emotion. To be "ebullient" is to be lively or enthusiastic. The

sentence states that Claudia "can seem" one way when she "is

actually" something else, so the missing terms should have opposite

meanings; the terms "stoic" and "ebullient" are indeed opposites.

However, the sentence indicates that Claudia is "adept at controlling

her temper," so the missing terms should have something to do with

the suppression of anger. The word "stoic" makes sense in the first

blank, because Claudia might control her temper so well that she

shows no emotion, but the term "ebullient" does not fit the second

blank because it has nothing to do with anger.


Choice (E) is incorrect. In this context, "ambivalent" means

undecided or uncertain. To be "reticent" is to be inclined to be silent.

The sentence indicates that Claudia is "adept at controlling her

temper," so the missing terms should have something to do with the

suppression of anger. The terms ambivalent and reticent do not

logically complete the sentence; neither term suggests that Claudia is

angry or that she is suppressing that anger.

4


Choice (C) is correct. A person who is servile is submissive and

somewhat spiritlesshe or she submits, or gives in, to other people

with no resistance. The part of the sentence that follows the comma

elaborates on the young mans disposition, so the term that fits the

blank should describe someone who is abjectly, or spiritlessly,

submissive. The term servile accurately describes such a person.


Choice (A) is incorrect. An "amiable" person is friendly, sociable, and

pleasant to be around. The part of the sentence that follows the

comma elaborates on the young mans disposition, so the term that

fits the blank should describe someone who is abjectly, or

spiritlessly, submissive. A person who gives in to others might be

friendly and pleasant, but the term amiable does not necessarily

describe someone who is abjectly submissive.


Choice (B) is incorrect. An "inscrutable" person is mysterious or hard

to read. The part of the sentence that follows the comma elaborates

The y oung man possessed ------- disposition, abjectly submissiv e to the will of others.

(A) an amiable

(B) an inscrutable

(C) a serv ile

(D) a jocular

(E) a melancholy




to read. The part of the sentence that follows the comma elaborates

on the young mans disposition, so the term that fits the blank should

describe someone who is abjectly, or spiritlessly, submissive.

Some people might find it hard to understand why a person would

give in to others, but an inscrutable person is not necessarily an

abjectly submissive person.


Choice (D) is incorrect. A "jocular" person is fun-loving and playful.

The part of the sentence that follows the comma elaborates on the

young mans disposition, so the term that fits the blank should

describe someone who is abjectly, or spiritlessly, submissive.

The term jocular does not necessarily describe such a person.

Indeed, it is unlikely that someone who is thought to be spiritless

would also be considered fun-loving and playful.


Choice (E) is incorrect. A person who is "melancholy" is sad or

depressed. The part of the sentence that follows the comma

elaborates on the young mans disposition, so the term that fits the

blank should describe someone who is abjectly, or spiritlessly,

submissive. Someone who is depressed very well might be

described as being spiritless, but the term melancholy has nothing

to do with being submissive.

5


Choice (C) is correct. "Resilient" means able to adjust easily to or

recover from misfortune or change. The use of the term "Although"

indicates that the "seventeenth-century Dutch republic" and the

"other European states" were affected by the "stresses of political

upheaval" in different ways. The sentence suggests that unlike other

European states, the Dutch republic did not break apart during

stressful times; therefore, the missing term should have something to

do with adapting to difficulties or remaining strong under pressure. It

makes sense to characterize the Dutch republic as remarkably

resilient.


Although other European states broke apart under the stresses of political

upheav al, the sev enteenth-century Dutch republic prov ed remarkably -------.

(A) propitious

(B) illusory

(C) resilient

(D) pertinent

(E) poignant




Choice (A) is incorrect. Propitious means benevolent, or favorably

disposed and marked by goodwill. The use of the term "Although"

indicates that the "seventeenth-century Dutch republic" and the

"other European states" were affected by the "stresses of political

upheaval" in different ways. The sentence suggests that unlike other

European states, the Dutch republic did not break apart during

stressful times; therefore, the missing term should have something to

do with adapting to difficulties or remaining strong under pressure.

The Dutch republic might have been considered benevolent, but the

term propitious does not have anything to do with remaining

strong during stressful times, so it does not logically complete the

sentence.


Choice (B) is incorrect. "Illusory" means deceptive or producing

illusions. The use of the term "Although" indicates that the

"seventeenth-century Dutch republic" and the "other European

states" were affected by the "stresses of political upheaval" in

different ways. The sentence suggests that unlike other European

states, the Dutch republic did not break apart during stressful times;

therefore, the missing term should have something to do with

adapting to difficulties or remaining strong under pressure. There is

no indication that the Dutch republic owed its survival to deceptive

actions, and being deceptive does not necessarily have anything to

do with remaining strong during stressful times, so the term

illusory does not logically complete the sentence. Further, a

republic or state would not typically be referred to as illusory, even if

its government had attempted to deceive others; an illusory state

would be a state that did not exist, that was purely an illusion.


Choice (D) is incorrect. "Pertinent" means relevant. The use of the

term "Although" indicates that the "seventeenth-century Dutch

republic" and the "other European states" were affected by the

"stresses of political upheaval" in different ways. The sentence

suggests that unlike other European states, the Dutch republic did

not break apart during stressful times; therefore, the missing term

should have something to do with adapting to difficulties or

remaining strong under pressure. An argument could be made that a

republic that did not break apart remained pertinent, or relevant,

while other states crumbled. However, the term pertinent is not

directly connected to the idea of remaining strong during stressful

times, so (D) is not the best choice.


Choice (E) is incorrect. "Poignant" means emotionally moving or

affecting. The use of the term "Although" indicates that the

"seventeenth-century Dutch republic" and the "other European

states" were affected by the "stresses of political upheaval" in

different ways. The sentence suggests that unlike other European





therefore, the missing term should have something to do with

adapting to difficulties or remaining strong under pressure. The

breaking apart of states might have been a moving experience for

their citizens, but the term poignant does not have anything to do

with remaining strong during stressful times. Further, a republic or

state would not typically be referred to as poignant.

6


Choice (B) is correct. "Consummate" means extremely skilled, of the

highest degree, or perfect. The sentence indicates that Veronica is

"supremely skillful" in her "use of sophisticated laboratory

instruments," so it makes sense to describe her as a consummate

research technician.


Choice (A) is incorrect. "Susceptible" means impressionable or open

to persuasion. The sentence indicates that Veronica, a research

technician, is "supremely skillful" in her "use of sophisticated

laboratory instruments." There is no suggestion that Veronica is

susceptible to anyone or anything; the sentence simply indicates that

she is an extremely skilled research technician.


Choice (C) is incorrect. "Visionary" means having foresight or

imagination. The sentence indicates that Veronica, a research


laboratory instruments." Veronica might have great foresight or

imagination, but the sentence does not suggest this; instead, the

sentence simply describes her skill with laboratory instruments,

indicating that she is an extremely skilled research technician.


Choice (D) is incorrect. "Vitriolic" means extremely harsh or caustic.

The sentence indicates that Veronica, a research technician, is

"supremely skillful" in her "use of sophisticated laboratory

instruments." There is no suggestion that Veronica is extremely

harsh towards anyone or anything; the sentence simply indicates that

she is an extremely skilled research technician.

It is her supremely skillful use of sophisticated laboratory instruments that makes

Veronica the -------- research technician that she is.

(A) susceptible

(B) consummate

(C) v isionary

(D) v itriolic

(E) doctrinaire





Choice (E) is incorrect. "Doctrinaire" means dictatorial and

dogmatic, or characterized by expressing opinions very strongly as if

they were facts. The sentence indicates that Veronica, a research


laboratory instruments." There is no suggestion that Veronica

behaves in a dictatorial way; the sentence simply indicates that she is

an extremely skilled research technician.

The following excerpt is from a 1996 collection of essays written by a

physicist.

I was somewhat embarrassed not so long ago when

I opened a y ear-old phy sics journal and read that two

Japanese fellows had attacked the same problem I wasLine currently finishing up, obtaining an identical solution.5 The problem, not so consequential now as I reflect sto-

ically on my preempted calculations, concerned the spatial

distribution that would eventually be achieved by a group

of particles of different masses interacting with each other

by grav ity .10 The underly ing theories of grav ity and thermody namics

necessary for solv ing such a problem are certainly well

established, so I suppose I should not have been surprised

to find that someone else had arrived at similar results. Still,

my pulse raced as I sat with my notebook and checked off15 each digit of their answers, in exact agreement with mine

to four decimal places.

After doing science for a number of y ears, one has the

overwhelming feeling that there exists some objective

reality outside ourselves, that various discoveries are wait-20 ing fully formed, like plums to be picked. If one scientist

doesnt pick a certain plum, the next one will. It is an eerie

sensation.

This objective aspect of science is a pillar of strength and,

at the same time, somewhat dehumanizing. The very useful-25 ness of science is that indiv idual accomplishments become

calibrated, dry -cleaned, and standardized. Experimental

results are considered valid only if they are reproducible;

theoretical ideas are powerful only if they can be general-

ized and distilled into abstract, disembodied equations.30 That there are often several different routes to a particu-

lar result is taken as an indication of the correctness of the

result, rather than of the capacity for indiv idual expression

in science. And alway s there is the continual sy nthesis, the

blending of successive results and ideas, in which indiv idual35 contributions dissolve into the whole. Such strength is awe-

some and reassuring; it would be a tricky business to land a

person on the Moon if the spaceships trajectory 1 depended

on the mood of the astronauts, or if the Moon were alway s

hurry ing off to unknown appointments.40 For these same reasons, however, science offers little

comfort to any one who aches to leave behind a personal

message in his or her work, his own little poem or her own


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7


haunting sonata. Einstein is attributed with the statement

that even had Newton or Leibniz never lived, the world45 would have had calculus, but if Beethoven had never lived,

we would never have had the C-minor Sy mphony .

Max Delbrck, the phy sicist-turned-biologist, said in his

Nobel Prize address, A scientists message is not devoid

of universality , but its universality is disembodied and

50 anony mous. While the artists communication is linked

forever with its original form, that of the scientist is modi-

fied, amplified, fused with the ideas and results of others

and melts into the stream of knowledge and ideas which

forms our culture. It seems to me that in both science and55 art we are try ing desperately to connect with something

this is how we achieve universality . In art, that something

is people, their experiences and sensitiv ities. In science,

that something is nature, the phy sical world and phy sical

laws. Sometimes we dial the wrong number and are later60 found out. Ptolemy s theory of the solar sy stem, in which

the Sun and planets revolve about Earth in cy cles and cy cles

within cy cles, is imaginative, ingenious, and even beautiful

but phy sically wrong. Virtually unquestioned for cen-

turies, it was ungracefully detonated like a condemned

65 building after Copernicus2 came along.

Very well. Scientists will forever have to live with the

fact that their product is, in the end, impersonal. But sci-

entists want to be understood as people. Go to any of the

numerous scientific conferences each y ear in biology or70 chemistry or phy sics, and y ou will see a wonderful com-

munity of people chitchatting in the hallway s, holding forth

delightedly at the blackboard, or loudly interrupting each

other during lectures with relevant and irrelevant remarks.

It can hardly be argued that such in-the-flesh gatherings are75 necessary for communication of scientific knowledge these

day s, with the asphy xiating crush of academic journals and

the push-button ease of telephone calls. But it is here, and

not in equations, however correct, that we scientists can

express our personalities to our colleagues and relish an80 appreciative smile. Sometimes I enjoy this as much as the

science.

1path of a moving body throu gh space

2N icolau s Copernicu s (1473-1543) advanced the theory that Earth and other planets revolve

arou nd the Su n.

In line 20, the author uses the word plums to refer to the

(A) multitude of problems needing to be solv ed

(B) existence of y et-to-be-discov ered scientific truths

(C) fascinating nature of scientific discov eries

(D) rewards of fame and prestige for v eteran researchers

(E) maturation of scientific inv estigations ov er long periods of time




Choice (B) is correct. In the third paragraph, the author is reflecting

on the experience of independently solving a physics problem the

exact same way two Japanese scientists just had. The author implies

that the right answer to the physics problem existed, but had not

been discovereduntil the Japanese scientists (and, separately, the

author) figured it out. The author muses that, in the world of science,

one begins to feel that "various discoveries are waiting fully formed,

like plums to be picked." These plums represent scientific truths that

have not been revealed: they exist, but scientists have not found

them yet.


Choice (A) is incorrect. In the third paragraph, the author is

reflecting on the experience of independently solving a physics

problem the exact same way two Japanese scientists just had. The

author implies that the right answer to the physics problem existed,

but had not been discovereduntil the Japanese scientists (and,

separately, the author) figured it out. The author muses that, in the

world of science, one begins to feel that "various discoveries are

waiting fully formed, like plums to be picked." These plums

represent scientific truths that have not been revealed: they exist,

but scientists have not found them yet. The plums are answers

waiting to be discovered, not problems needing to be solved.


Choice (C) is incorrect. In the third paragraph, the author is







waiting fully formed, like plums to be picked." The author likely

would agree that scientific discoveries are fascinating, but he or she

does not use the word "plums" to refer to the fascinating nature of

scientific discoveries. Rather, he or she uses the image of plums to

represent scientific truths that have not been revealed: they exist,

but scientists have not found them yet.


Choice (D) is incorrect. In the third paragraph, the author is







waiting fully formed, like plums to be picked." There is no mention of

fame or other rewards in the third paragraph, and there is no

indication that the author uses the word plums to refer to such



rewards. Rather, the plums represent scientific truths that have not

been revealed: they exist, but scientists have not found them yet.


Choice (E) is incorrect. In the third paragraph, the author is







waiting fully formed, like plums to be picked." The author does not

use the word plums to refer to the maturation of scientific

investigations over time; rather, he or she uses the image of plums to

represent scientific truths that exist and are ready to be discovered

they are fully formedbut have not yet been found by scientists.

8


Choice (D) is correct. In the fourth paragraph, the author refers to

the "objective aspect of science" as "somewhat dehumanizing." This

theme is expanded upon later in the passage as the author laments

that "science offers little comfort to anyone who aches to leave

behind a personal message is his or her work" (lines 4042) because

a scientists product is, in the end, impersonal (line 67). In the

context of these sentiments, it is clear that the references to an

individual's insights becoming "dry-cleaned" and "distilled" reflect

the author's unease with the impersonal nature of scientific work.


Choice (A) is incorrect. In the fourth paragraph, the author refers to









The author is not discussing the need for a sterile laboratory; he or

In the context of the passage, the authors use of dry -cleaned (line 26) and

distilled (line 29) most directly reflects the ov erall

(A) concern for maintaining a sterile env ironment in the laboratory

(B) fear that experimental results will be inappropriately judged

(C) pleasure in precise and accurate experimentation

(D) unease with the impersonal nature of scientific work

(E) dissatisfaction with society s attitude toward scientific research




she does not mean that anything is literally dry-cleaned and distilled,

or purified.


Choice (B) is incorrect. In the fourth paragraph, the author refers to









Nowhere in the passage does the author suggest that he or she fears

that experimental results will be inappropriately judged. Rather, the

author points out that the somewhat dehumanizing nature of science

is to accept only those experimental results that can be reproduced

and standardized.


Choice (C) is incorrect. In the fourth paragraph, the author refers to









The author is a scientist, so he or she likely appreciates precise and

accurate experimentation; however, the fourth paragraph is about

the authors discomfort, not his or her pleasure, with certain aspects

of the nature of science.


Choice (E) is incorrect. In the fourth paragraph, the author refers to









Nowhere in the passage does the author discuss his or her

dissatisfaction with society's attitude toward scientific research.

9 In lines 35-39 (Such . . . appointments), the author discusses space exploration



Explanation for Correct Answer E :

Choice (E) is correct. Earlier in the passage, the author discusses the

idea that science is objective, not subjective; he or she states that the

existence of objective reality is a pillar of strength in science. In

the fifth paragraph, the author continues to examine the idea of

objective truths, referring to the blending of successive results and

ideas into a whole whose strength is awesome and reassuring.

The author then discusses space exploration to demonstrate the

benefits of objectivity in the natural world: if a spaceships

trajectory depended on the subjective whims of a group of people

(the mood of the astronauts) and the location of the Moon were

subjective (if the Moon were always hurrying off to unknown

appointments), it would be very difficult to land a person on the

Moon. By pointing out the ways in which subjectivity in the natural

world would make it difficult for scientists to do their work, the

author indicates that the lack of subjectivity in the natural world has

many benefits.


Choice (A) is incorrect. Earlier in the passage, the author discusses

the idea that science is objective, not subjective; he or she states that

the existence of objective reality is a pillar of strength in science.

In the fifth paragraph, the author continues to examine the idea of



Although space exploration is an area of science that often captures

the public imagination, the author does not discuss the subject to

explain how science can capture the imagination. Rather, he or she

discusses space exploration to demonstrate that the lack of

subjectivity in the natural world has many benefits. For example, if a

spaceships trajectory depended on the subjective whims of a group

of people (the mood of the astronauts) and the location of the

Moon were subjective (if the Moon were always hurrying off to

unknown appointments), it would be very difficult to land a person

on the Moon.


Choice (B) is incorrect. Earlier in the passage, the author discusses




primarily to explain how

(A) certain areas of science can capture the public imagination

(B) careful calculations affect space trav el

(C) the indiv idual scientist contributes to the study of astronomy

(D)space exploration is an expensiv e but necessary part of research in

astronomy

(E) the absence of subjectiv ity in the natural world has practical benefits






The author does indirectly imply that calculations affect space

travel, but he or she discusses space exploration in order to explain

the larger point that objective truths in the natural worldtruths on

which many scientific calculations in space travel would depend

have many benefits; that is, the lack of subjectivity in the natural

world has practical benefits. For example, if a spaceships





Moon.


Choice (C) is incorrect. Earlier in the passage, the author discusses






The author specifically states that individual contributions

dissolve into this whole, so it is fair to say that individual scientists

contribute to various fields of scientific study. However, the author

does not discuss space exploration in order to explain that the

individual scientist contributes to the study of astronomy. Rather, he

or she discusses the topic to explain that the lack of subjectivity in

the natural world has many benefits. For example, if a spaceships





Moon.


Choice (D) is incorrect. Earlier in the passage, the author discusses






The author then discusses space exploration to demonstrate that the

lack of subjectivity in the natural world has many benefits. For

example, if a spaceships trajectory depended on the subjective

whims of a group of people (the mood of the astronauts) and the

location of the Moon were subjective (if the Moon were always

hurrying off to unknown appointments), it would be very difficult to

land a person on the Moon. Nowhere in lines 35-39 does the author

mention the expenses involved in space exploration.



10


Choice (D) is correct. To merge is to mix or to be combined into one.

Max Delbrcks quote explains that a scientist's individual

contribution "melts into the stream of knowledge and ideas which

forms our culture." In this context, the term melts most nearly

means merges; Delbrck means that individual ideas and results

merge together, forming one stream of knowledge. This idea is also

expressed in lines 33-35: "there is the continual synthesis . . . in

which individual contributions dissolve into the whole."


Choice (A) is incorrect. To liquefy is to turn into a liquid. Max

Delbrcks quote explains that a scientist's individual contribution

"melts into the stream of knowledge and ideas which forms our

culture." Although Delbrck refers to a stream, he does not mean

that scientific contributions liquefy; rather, the stream to which he

refers is a stream of knowledge in which scientific ideas and results

melt, or merge, together. It is illogical to suggest that scientists ideas

could literally turn into a liquid.


Choice (B) is incorrect. To thaw is to go from a frozen to a liquid

state, or to melt. Max Delbrcks quote explains that a scientist's

individual contribution "melts into the stream of knowledge and

ideas which forms our culture." Delbrck does not use the term

melts to mean that scientists ideas thaw; rather, he uses the term

metaphorically to mean that scientific ideas and results melt, or

merge, together to form one stream of knowledge. It is illogical to

suggest that scientists ideas could literally go from a frozen to a

liquid state.


Choice (C) is incorrect. To evaporate is to turn into a vapor. Max

Delbrcks quote explains that a scientist's individual contribution

"melts into the stream of knowledge and ideas which forms our

culture." Delbrck does not use the term melts to mean that

scientists ideas evaporate; rather, he uses the term metaphorically to

mean that scientific ideas and results melt, or merge, together to

form one stream of knowledge. It is illogical to suggest that scientists

ideas could literally turn into vapor.

In line 53 , melts most nearly means

(A) liquefies

(B) thaws

(C) ev aporates

(D) merges

(E) softens





Choice (E) is incorrect. To soften is to weaken or to lose firmness.

Max Delbrcks quote explains that a scientist's individual

contribution "melts into the stream of knowledge and ideas which

forms our culture." Some things do soften as they melt, but Delbrck

does not use the term melts to mean that scientists ideas lose

firmness; he does not suggest that individual contributions weaken as

they join the stream of knowledge. Rather, Delbrck uses the term

melts to mean that scientific ideas and results merge together to

form one stream of knowledge.

11

Explanation for Correct Answer A :

Choice (A) is correct. In lines 5456, the author states that both art

and science are trying "to connect with somethingthis is how we

achieve universality." The author then indicates that art achieves

universality through its attempt to connect with people, their

experiences and sensitivities, while science achieves universality

through its attempt to connect with nature, the physical world and

physical laws. The author distinguishes between two types of

universality by comparing the ways in which they are achieved by

two different groups.


Choice (B) is incorrect. In lines 5456, the author states that both art


achieve universality." The author then distinguishes between two

types of universality, indicating that art achieves universality

through its attempt to connect with people, their experiences and

sensitivities, while science achieves universality through its attempt

to connect with nature, the physical world and physical laws. The

author does not analyze the ways in which artistic universality and

scientific universality have been interpreted; instead, he or she

compares the ways in which these two types of universality are

achieved.


Choice (C) is incorrect. In lines 5456, the author states that both art

The passage distinguishes between two ty pes of univ ersality (line 56) primarily

by

(A) comparing way s in which they are achiev ed

(B) analy zing way s in which they hav e been interpreted

(C) describing situations in which they contradict one another

(D) prov iding famous examples of each from Nobel Prize winners

(E) criticizing the notions they conv ey about worldly success





achieve universality." The author then indicates that art achieves

universality through its attempt to connect with people, their

experiences and sensitivities, while science achieves universality

through its attempt to connect with nature, the physical world and

physical laws. Although the author distinguishes between the two

types of universalityartistic and scientifiche or she does not

suggest that they contradict one another. Instead of describing

situations of contradiction, the author simply compares the ways in

which artistic universality and scientific universality are achieved.


Choice (D) is incorrect. In lines 5456, the author states that both art



types of universality by comparing how each is achieved: art

achieves universality through its attempt to connect with people,

their experiences and sensitivities, while science achieves

universality through its attempt to connect with nature, the physical

world and physical laws. The author does not provide specific

examples, from Nobel Prize winners or otherwise, of each type of

universality.


Choice (E) is incorrect. In lines 5456, the author states that both art



types of universality, indicating that art achieves universality

through its attempt to connect with people, their experiences and

sensitivities, while science achieves universality through its attempt

to connect with nature, the physical world and physical laws. The

author does not criticize either type of universality or suggest that

the two types convey any notions about worldly success. Instead, he

or she simply compares the ways in which two types of universality

are achieved.

12


Choice (B) is correct. "Wistful" means melancholy, or thoughtful

with a touch of sadness. Throughout the passage the author muses on

The authors ov erall tone in the passage is best described as

(A) self-congratulatory

(B) wistful

(C) restrained

(D) irate

(E) nostalgic




the impersonality of science, on the fact that "science offers little

comfort to anyone who aches to leave behind a personal message in

his or her work." He or she realizes after the experience with the

Japanese scientists that science is not about individual expression,

but about the subordination of the individual to larger truth. As the

passage illustrates, this creates some sadness for individual

scientists, who "want to be understood as people." The author

concludes with the image of scientists gathering at a conference: "it is

here, and not in equations, however correct, that we scientists can

express our personalities." The passage conveys the author's

wistfulness about the inescapable fact that individual scientists

cannot fully express themselves in their work.


Choice (A) is incorrect. To be "self-congratulatory" is to praise

oneself. Throughout the passage, the author muses on the

impersonality of science, on the fact that "science offers little


his or her work." The author realizes after the experience with the




scientists, who "want to be understood as people." Rather than being

self-congratulatory, the author offers some self-critical remarks,

acknowledging that he or she "was somewhat embarrassed" to realize

that the physics problem had already been solved, that the problem

was "not so consequential," and that scientists are by nature a

somewhat needy and frustrated bunch. This author does not praise

himself or herself, and the tone of the passage is not self-

congratulatory.


Choice (C) is incorrect. "Restrained," in this context, means inhibited

or holding back. Throughout the passage, the author muses on the

impersonality of science, on the fact that "science offers little






scientists, who "want to be understood as people." The author is

quite forthright and honest about the feelings of scientists; he or she

does not seem to be restrained or holding back.


Choice (D) is incorrect. "Irate" means intensely angry. Throughout

the passage, the author muses on the impersonality of science, on the

fact that "science offers little comfort to anyone who aches to leave

behind a personal message in his or her work." The author realizes

after the experience with the Japanese scientists that science is not

about individual expression, but about the subordination of the



individual to larger truth. As the passage illustrates, this creates some

sadness for individual scientists, who "want to be understood as

people." However, the author does not reveal any anger. His or her

tone is somewhat melancholy, not irate.


Choice (E) is incorrect. "Nostalgic" means sentimental about or

yearning for the past. Throughout the passage, the author muses on

the impersonality of science, on the fact that "science offers little






scientists, who "want to be understood as people." The author is

somewhat melancholy about the way science is currently practiced,

but there is no indication that science provided more room for

individual expression in the past. The author does not reveal any

feelings of yearning for the past, and his or her tone is not nostalgic.

13

Explanation for Correct Answer A :

Choice (A) is correct. In lines 6065 the author emphasizes the point

that science, unlike art, values objective truth over individual

creativity and insight. Ptolemy developed a theory of the solar

system that was "imaginative, ingenious, and even beautifulbut

physically wrong." As a result, when Copernicus proposed a better,

more accurate explanation, Ptolemy's theory was "detonated like a

condemned building"that is, it was destroyed. The authors point is

that in science, only truth counts. The author does not suggest that

Ptolemy suffered from a lack of creativity; on the contrary, he or she

suggests that Ptolemy's theory was extraordinarily creative, even

though it turned out to be incorrect.


Choice (B) is incorrect. In lines 6065, the author explains that

Ptolemy developed a theory of the solar system that was

In discussing Ptolemy s theory of the solar sy stem (lines 60-65), the author

suggests all of the following EXCEPT:

(A) Ptolemy s work as a scientist suffered from a lack of creativ ity .

(B) Copernicus work eradicated the work of Ptolemy .

(C)The scientific v alue of a theory depends on whether it stands up to the

challenges of other scientists.

(D)Scientific findings, ev en when based on inaccuracies, often are accepted as

truth.

(E)Both Ptolemy and Copernicus made influential contributions to theories

about the solar sy stem.




"imaginative, ingenious, and even beautifulbut physically wrong."

As a result, when Copernicus proposed a better, more accurate

explanation, Ptolemy's theory was "detonated like a condemned

building"that is, it was destroyed. The author does suggest that

Copernicus work eradicated, or did away with, the work of Ptolemy.


Choice (C) is incorrect. In lines 6065, the author explains that





building"that is, it was destroyed. The author does suggest that a

theory is only valuable if it can stand up to challenges by other

scientists; Ptolemy's theory was unable to withstand Copernicus'

challenge and was proven wrong.


Choice (D) is incorrect. In lines 6065, the author explains that





building"that is, it was destroyed. The author does suggest that

inaccurate scientific findings such as Ptolemys can be accepted, for a

period of time, as truthhowever, as the case of Ptolemy illustrates,

truth eventually prevails.


Choice (E) is incorrect. In lines 6065, the author explains that





building." The author does suggest that both Ptolemy, whose theory

was "Virtually unquestioned for centuries," and Copernicus, whose

theory was eventually shown to be correct, made influential

contributions to theories about the solar system.

14 The implication of the authors statement Very well (line 66) is that the author

(A) is more than willing to take on a new challenge

(B) is concerned that scientists often make fundamental errors

(C) is pleased with the accomplishments of other scientists

(D) recognizes the need to accept an unpleasant fact

(E) agrees with the most recent astronomical theories





Choice (D) is correct. The entire passage up to line 66 is a reflection

on the "somewhat dehumanizing" nature of science, on the fact that

"science offers little comfort to anyone who aches to leave behind a

personal message in his or her work." After examining this issue

thoughtfully, the author concludes: "Very well. Scientists will forever

have to live with the fact that their product is, in the end,

impersonal." The author recognizes the need to accept the somewhat

unpleasant fact that science offers little opportunity for individual

expression.


Choice (A) is incorrect. The entire passage up to line 66 is a reflection






impersonal." The author does not address new challenges and his or

her willingness to take them on; instead, the author acknowledges the

need to accept the somewhat unpleasant fact that science offers little

opportunity for individual expression.


Choice (B) is incorrect. The entire passage up to line 66 is a reflection






impersonal." Although the author discusses Ptolemys physically

wrong theory of the solar system earlier in the passage, he or she is

not primarily concerned with errors, and the statement in line 66

does not imply that the author is worried that scientists make

fundamental errors. Rather, the statement in line 66 suggests that the

author recognizes the need to accept the somewhat unpleasant fact

that science offers little opportunity for individual expression.


Choice (C) is incorrect. The entire passage up to line 66 is a reflection






impersonal." Earlier in the passage the author does refer to other

scientiststhe two Japanese fellows, Ptolemy, Copernicus, the

scientists who attend conferencesbut the author does not discuss

his or her pleasure concerning the achievements of other scientists.

Rather than indicating that the author is pleased with other scientists



accomplishments, the statement in line 66 suggests that the author

recognizes the need to accept the somewhat unpleasant fact that

science offers little opportunity for individual expression.


Choice (E) is incorrect. The entire passage up to line 66 is a reflection






impersonal." The author does discuss theories of the solar system in

the lines leading up to this conclusion, and it is likely that he or she

agrees with many recent astronomical theories; however, the

astronomical theories the author mentions in the passage are

hundreds of years old. The statement in line 66 does not indicate that

the author agrees with the most recent astronomical theories.

Rather, it suggests that the author recognizes the need to accept the

somewhat unpleasant fact that science offers little opportunity for

individual expression.

15


Choice (E) is correct. The last three paragraphs of the passage

discuss the differences between the "somewhat dehumanizing"

nature of science and other, more personal, types of work and

interaction. The author suggests that the "communication"

mentioned in line 50, the "artist's communication," is a unique,

personal expression that could not have been created by anyone else.

As the author explains, "if Beethoven had never lived, we would

never have had the C-minor Symphony." On the other hand, the

communication mentioned in line 75 is the exchange of

impersonal, objective, scientific informationit is the

communication of scientific knowledge through academic

journals, telephone calls, and scientific conferences. The

distinction between the two types of communication reflects the

difference between conveying ones personal vision and exchanging

objective information.

The distinction between the communication mentioned in line 50 and the

communication mentioned in line 7 5 most directly reflects the difference

between

(A) talking to oneself and listening to a knowledgeable instructor

(B) expressing ones uniqueness and seeking friendship with an indiv idual

(C) sharing emotional experiences and analy zing past ev ents

(D) creating new objects and circulating existing relics

(E) conv ey ing a personal v ision and exchanging objectiv e information





Choice (A) is incorrect. The last three paragraphs of the passage












distinction between the two types of communication does not reflect

the difference between talking to oneself and listening to an

instructor; the author does not suggest that an artist who creates

something that others may experience is talking to himself or herself,

and the exchange of scientific information the author describes

involves discussions and interactions, not simply listening to an

instructor.


Choice (B) is incorrect. The last three paragraphs of the passage













the difference between expressing ones uniqueness and seeking

friendship with an individual. The author might say that an artists

work expresses the artists uniqueness, but the communication of

scientific information the author describes is not about seeking

friendship; scientists might form friendships with each otherat

scientific conferences, perhapsbut the communication of

knowledge is simply the exchanging of objective information.


Choice (C) is incorrect. The last three paragraphs of the passage















the difference between sharing emotional experiences and analyzing

past events. The author does not suggest that artists necessarily

share emotional experiences with others, and he or she does not

indicate that scientists analyze things that happened in the past when

they exchange information.


Choice (D) is incorrect. The last three paragraphs of the passage













the difference between creating new objects and circulating existing

relics. The author implies that artists communicate through the art

they produce, so they may be creating new objects; however, the

author does not suggest that scientists pass around existing relics

when they exchange information.

16


Choice (E) is correct. In lines 74-77, the author argues that scientific

conferences (in-the-flesh gatherings) are not necessary for

communication of scientific knowledge these days, with the

asphyxiating crush of academic journals and the push-button ease of

telephone calls. By using the term asphyxiatingcausing

conditions that interrupt breathing and lead to unconsciousness and

sometimes deathto describe the crush of academic journals, the

In line 7 6, crush most nearly means

(A) compression

(B) infatuation

(C) stampede

(D) suppression

(E) ov erabundance




author implies that there are so many of these journals available that

one might feel suffocated or smothered by them. The term

overabundance describes an excess of something beyond what is

needed, desired, or appropriate; in this context the term crush

most nearly means overabundance.


Choice (A) is incorrect. In lines 74-77, the author argues that

scientific conferences (in-the-flesh gatherings) are not necessary

for communication of scientific knowledge these days, with the






one might feel suffocated or smothered by them. Compression is a

state of being reduced in size or volume. The author is claiming that

there are many academic journals, not that there are reduced

numbers of these journals; it does not make sense to say that in this

context the term crush most nearly means compression.


Choice (B) is incorrect. In lines 74-77, the author argues that








one might feel suffocated or smothered by them. Infatuation is a

state of being inspired with a foolish or extravagant love or

admiration. The author clearly believes that academic journals are a

reliable source of scientific knowledge and does not suggest that they

elicit any sort of foolish admiration. Rather, the author is merely

commenting on the large number of journals to which scientists can

refer. In this context the term crush most nearly means

overabundance, not infatuation.


Choice (C) is incorrect. In lines 74-77, the author argues that








one might feel suffocated or smothered by them. A stampede is a

mass impulsive action, such as a mass movement of people or a

sudden frenzied rush of frightened animals. It may seem as if the



author intends the term crush to be close in meaning to the term

stampede, since a stampede often involves a large quantity of

people, animals, or objects. However, it does not make sense to

describe academic journals as impulsive, or spontaneous, so it is not

logical to say that in line 76 the term crush most nearly means

stampede.


Choice (D) is incorrect. In lines 74-77, the author argues that








one might feel suffocated or smothered by them. In this context,

suppression means the stopping or prohibition of a publication or

revelation of something. Because the author is clearly commenting

on the overabundance, or excess, of academic journals, rather than a

shortage or lack of these publications, it does not make sense to say

that in line 76 the term crush most nearly means suppression.

17


Choice (D) is correct. The discussion of scientific conferences begins

as the author admits that the product of scientists work is

impersonal. He or she then goes on to say that despite the impersonal

nature of their work, scientists want to be understood as people,

and by attending conferences, scientists can express [their]

personalities to [their] colleagues and relish an appreciative smile.

Additionally, the author acknowledges that these in-the-flesh

gatherings are certainly not necessary for the communication of

scientific knowledge these days; he or she is focusing, then, on

scientists taking advantage of the opportunity for personal

interaction at conferences.


Choice (A) is incorrect. Scientists might learn about the research

The author suggests that scientists attend conferences to

(A) learn what research their colleagues are presently pursuing

(B)compare current lectures with the scientific knowledge already presented

in journals

(C) keep up with the most recent discov eries in their respectiv e fields

(D) participate in extensiv e personal interaction with colleagues

(E) express orally their scientific disagreements with their colleagues




their colleagues are presently pursuing when they attend

conferences, but the author does not suggest that this is why

scientists attend these in-the-flesh gatherings. In fact, he or she

acknowledges that conferences are not necessary for the

communication of scientific knowledge these daysscientists can

easily find out what research is currently being pursued by simply

consulting one of the many academic journals or by making

telephone calls to colleagues. The author primarily focuses on


interaction at conferencesby attending conferences, scientists can

express [their] personalities to [their] colleagues and relish an

appreciative smile.


Choice (B) is incorrect. The author does not suggest that scientists

attend conferences to compare current lectures with the scientific

knowledge already presented in journals. He or she acknowledges

that these in-the-flesh gatherings are certainly not necessary for

the communication of scientific knowledge these daysscientists

can independently consult academic journals in order to make such a

comparison, or they can simply make telephone calls to colleagues

to discuss these comparisons. The author primarily focuses on


interaction at conferences; by attending conferences, scientists can

express [their] personalities to [their] colleagues and relish an

appreciative smile.


Choice (C) is incorrect. Scientists might learn about new discoveries

when they attend conferences, but the author does not suggest that

scientists attend conferences to keep up with the most recent

discoveries in their respective fields. He or she acknowledges that

in-the-flesh gatherings are not necessary for the communication

of scientific knowledge these daysscientists can easily keep up

with the latest scientific discoveries by consulting one of the many

academic journals available or by making telephone calls to

colleagues. The author primarily focuses on scientists taking

advantage of the opportunity for personal interaction at

conferences; by attending conferences, scientists can express their

personalities to their colleagues and relish an appreciative smile.


Choice (E) is incorrect. The author does not suggest that scientists

attend conferences to express orally their scientific disagreements

with their colleagues. He or she acknowledges that these in-the-flesh

gatherings are not necessary for the communication of scientific

knowledge these daysscientists can easily voice their

disagreement with a colleague by simply making telephone calls.

The author primarily focuses on scientists taking advantage of the

opportunity for personal interaction at these conferences; by

attending conferences, scientists can express [their] personalities to



[their] colleagues and relish an appreciative smile.

18


Choice (E) is correct. Throughout the passage, the author explores

both the personal and impersonal nature of scientific study. Using

various techniques including comparison and contrast, personal

experience, citation, and anecdote, the author discusses viewpoints

regarding the idea that the objective aspect of science is a pillar of

strength and, at the same time, somewhat dehumanizing. Nowhere

in the passage does the author use accusationscharges of

wrongdoing, fault, or offenseto support one viewpoint over

another; he or she does not suggest that any particular way of

thinking about this concept is wrong, or that anyone in particular is

at fault in any way.


Choice (A) is incorrect. Throughout the passage, the author explores

both the personal and impersonal nature of scientific study. He or

she uses various techniques, including comparison and contrast, to

discuss viewpoints on this issue and on other related scientific ideas.

In lines 54-59, the author compares science and art, pointing out the

similarities and differences between the two academic fields: It

seems to me that in both science and art we are trying desperately to

connect with somethingthis is how we achieve universality. In art,

that something is people, their experiences and their sensitivities. In

science, that something is natu

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