Reading Comprehension

PT131 · S4 · P1 · Q3 Problem Solving with Parallel Computing

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Passage A Recent studies have shown that sophisticated computer models of the oceans and atmosphere are capable of simulating large-scale climate trends with remarkable accuracy.

Main Point (Passage A)

The continuing increase in computing capacity of the average desktop computer means that climate simulations can now be run on privately owned desktop machines connected to one another via the Internet (Third Paragraph of Passage A).

Passage Map (Passage A)

P1 - The use of computer models to predict large-scale climate trends. P2 - The computations are so intense that individual computers are inadequate. P3 - Individual computers can be linked together via the Internet to run simultaneous calculations and conduct complex modeling when the public’s interest has been captured.

Main Point (Passage B)

We are now living through a great paradigm shift in the field of computing, a shift from sequential computing to massive parallel computing (Third Paragraph of Passage B).

Passage Map (Passage B)

P1 - Many problems are naturally parallel. P2 - An example—ants. P3 - Since many problems are naturally parallel, it makes sense to use parallel computing to solve them.

3.

It can be inferred that the authors of the two passages would be most likely to agree on which one of the following statements concerning computing systems?

  1. Massive, parallel computing systems are

    Contradiction

    The author of passage A would disagree with this (second paragraph).

    26% picked this

  2. Computer models are not capable

    Contradiction

    The author of passage B would disagree with this (fifth and sixth paragraphs).

    1% picked this

  3. Parallel computing systems that link

    Contradiction

    Both authors would disagree with this (third and sixth paragraph).

    1% picked this

  4. Currently available computers are not

    Contradiction

    Both authors would disagree with this so long as those computers were connected to one another (third and sixth paragraph).

    11% picked this

  5. Correct

    Parallel computing systems employing multiple

    Why this is right

    This is supported in first and second paragraphs and sixth paragraph.

    Skill tested: Author Opinion · how this choice captures the passage's function is the move to repeat next time.

    61% picked this

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