LSAT (Law School Admission Test)Logical ReasoningMedium
A recent article argues that widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) will significantly reduce urban air pollution. The article cites data showing that EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions. \n\nWhich of the following, if true, most seriously challenges the article's conclusion?
- AThe manufacturing process for EV batteries is highly energy-intensive and often relies on fossil fuels.
- BMany urban areas already have strict regulations on traditional vehicle emissions.
- CThe electricity used to charge EVs is often generated by power plants that burn fossil fuels.
- DEVs are generally more expensive to purchase than comparable gasoline-powered vehicles.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The electricity used to charge EVs is often generated by power plants that burn fossil fuels.
The article's conclusion relies on the assumption that zero tailpipe emissions equate to zero overall pollution contribution. Option D reveals that the source of electricity for charging EVs can itself be a significant polluter, meaning that the pollution is merely shifted, not eliminated, thus challenging the claim of significantly reduced urban air pollution.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While manufacturing pollution is a concern, the article focuses on *urban air pollution* from *vehicle operation*. Manufacturing pollution occurs elsewhere and is not directly 'urban air pollution' from the vehicle's use.
- B. Existing regulations on traditional vehicles might mean less *additional* reduction from EVs, but it doesn't challenge the *mechanism* by which EVs would reduce pollution.
- D. Purchase cost is an economic factor, irrelevant to the environmental impact on urban air pollution.
Shifting the Burden (of Proof/Problem)
A flaw in reasoning where a problem is not solved, but merely moved or transformed, giving the false impression of resolution.
- Often seen in environmental arguments.
- A 'solution' addresses one aspect while creating another problem.
- The overall impact remains negative or unchanged despite an apparent improvement in one area.
Memory trick: Don't just move the mess; actually clean it up.