ACT (Enhanced)ReadingMedium
Consider the following two statements: Statement 1: 'The average temperature of Earth has increased by 1.2 degrees Celsius since the late 19th century, with the most significant warming occurring in the last four decades.' Statement 2: 'Many scientists believe that human activities, particularly the emission of greenhouse gases, are the primary drivers of this observed warming trend.' Which of the following best describes the relationship between Statement 1 and Statement 2?
- AStatement 1 presents a factual observation, while Statement 2 offers a widely accepted explanation for it.
- BBoth statements are hypotheses that require further empirical evidence.
- CStatement 1 is an opinion, and Statement 2 is a verifiable fact.
- DStatement 2 contradicts the premise established in Statement 1.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Statement 1 presents a factual observation, while Statement 2 offers a widely accepted explanation for it.
Statement 1 provides a quantifiable, measurable observation about Earth's temperature increase, making it a factual observation. Statement 2 attributes this observed warming to human activities and greenhouse gas emissions, representing a scientific explanation or interpretation of the fact presented in Statement 1.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. The language 'has increased' and 'believe that human activities... are the primary drivers' suggests established observation and accepted explanation, not mere hypotheses.
- C. Statement 1 is presented as a measurable fact, not an opinion. Statement 2, while a belief, is a scientific one based on evidence.
- D. Statement 2 explains Statement 1; it does not contradict it. It builds upon the observation.
Fact vs. Explanation
A fact is a verifiable observation or piece of information, while an explanation provides reasons or causes for that fact.
- Facts are objective and measurable.
- Explanations interpret or clarify facts.
- An explanation can be supported by evidence but may evolve.
Memory trick: Relation's rule: observe, then explain the tool.