LSAT (Law School Admission Test)Reading ComprehensionMedium
Passage: "The concept of 'quantum entanglement' describes a phenomenon where two or more particles become linked in such a way that they share the same fate, regardless of the distance separating them. A measurement performed on one entangled particle instantaneously influences the state of the other, even if they are light-years apart. This 'spooky action at a distance,' as Einstein famously called it, defies classical physics and has profound implications for our understanding of reality, suggesting a deeper interconnectedness than previously imagined. While entanglement has been experimentally verified numerous times, its potential applications in quantum computing and secure communication are still largely theoretical, awaiting technological breakthroughs to harness its full power. However, the fundamental nature of this connection, whether it involves faster-than-light communication or a pre-determined shared state, remains a subject of intense debate among physicists." The passage suggests that the 'spooky action at a distance' is considered paradoxical primarily because:
- AIt contradicts the principles of classical physics.
- BIts applications in technology are still theoretical.
- CIt only occurs over vast cosmic distances.
- DIt has not been experimentally verified.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. It contradicts the principles of classical physics.
The passage states that 'This 'spooky action at a distance'... defies classical physics.' The term 'paradoxical' implies something that seems contradictory or impossible, and defying established physics principles is precisely why it would be considered paradoxical.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While true, the theoretical nature of applications is a practical concern, not the reason the phenomenon itself is paradoxical.
- C. The passage notes it occurs 'regardless of the distance' and 'even if they are light-years apart,' but the distance itself isn't the paradoxical aspect; it's the instantaneous influence across that distance that defies classical understanding.
- D. The passage explicitly states 'entanglement has been experimentally verified numerous times,' so this is incorrect.
Specific Detail (Inferred Reason)
A question that requires identifying the underlying reason or cause for a phenomenon or statement explicitly mentioned in the text.
- Focuses on 'why' something is the way it is.
- Requires connecting a stated fact to its stated explanation.
- Often uses causal language cues.
Memory trick: Follow the arrow to the reason why.