Question

What does the scientific consensus generally support regarding the cause of global warming? 
 

• A. Natural processes are the primary driver of global warming.
• B. Human activities, especially fossil fuel combustion, significantly contribute to global warming.
• C. Climate change is not influenced by human activity.
• D. Global warming is solely caused by industrial activities.
• E.

Hint:

When a passage mentions “scientific consensus,” focus on what most scientists agree upon, not on the ongoing debates or minority views.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the passage. 
The passage highlights an ongoing debate about the causes of climate change. It presents two viewpoints — one attributing global warming to human activities and the other to natural processes. However, it specifies what the scientific consensus supports. 
Step 2: Identifying the scientific consensus. 
The passage clearly states that scientists largely agree that human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are a significant factor driving global warming. This implies that while natural processes may contribute, human influence is the dominant cause recognized by science. 
Step 3: Evaluating the options. 
(A) is incorrect because the passage rejects the idea that natural processes are the main cause. 
(B) correctly summarizes the scientific consensus as stated in the passage. 
(C) is incorrect, as the passage explicitly links human activity to climate change. 
(D) is too extreme; the passage says human activity is significant, not the sole cause. 
Step 4: Conclusion. 
Therefore, the scientific consensus supports that human actions, especially burning fossil fuels, play a major role in global warming. 

Final Answer: (B) Human activities, especially fossil fuel combustion, significantly contribute to global warming.