Question

Mosquitoes pose a threat to human health. Controlling mosquitoes using chemicals may have undesired consequences. In Florida, authorities have used genetically modified mosquitoes to control the overall mosquito population. It remains to be seen if this novel approach has unforeseen consequences.
Which one of the following is the correct logical inference based on the information in the above passage?

• A. Using chemicals to kill mosquitoes is better than using genetically modified mosquitoes because genetic engineering is dangerous
• B. Using genetically modified mosquitoes is better than using chemicals to kill mosquitoes because they do not have any side effects
• C. Both using genetically modified mosquitoes and chemicals have undesired consequences and can be dangerous
• D. Using chemicals to kill mosquitoes may have undesired consequences but it is not clear if using genetically modified mosquitoes has any negative consequence

Hint:

When inferring logical conclusions from a passage, focus on what the passage directly states and avoid assumptions not explicitly mentioned.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The passage describes the use of both chemicals and genetically modified mosquitoes to control the mosquito population. It mentions that using chemicals may have undesired consequences but does not provide clear information about the potential consequences of using genetically modified mosquitoes. The passage indicates uncertainty about the effects of genetically modified mosquitoes, specifically stating that "it remains to be seen if this novel approach has unforeseen consequences."
Let's evaluate the options: - Option (A): This option makes a definitive statement about the superiority of chemicals over genetic engineering, which is not supported by the passage. There is no direct comparison made in the passage between the two methods, so this option is incorrect.
- Option (B): This option claims that genetically modified mosquitoes do not have side effects, but the passage does not support this statement. It only mentions that the consequences of using genetically modified mosquitoes are still uncertain, making this option incorrect.
- Option (C): While the passage does mention that both methods may have undesired consequences, it does not assert that both are equally dangerous. Therefore, this option is not entirely accurate.
- Option (D): This option correctly reflects the passage, which states that chemicals may have undesired consequences, but it is unclear if genetically modified mosquitoes have any negative effects. Hence, option (D) is the correct answer.