Logical Reasoning

PT132 · S4 · Q17 A 24-year study of 1,500 adults

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A 24-year study of 1,500 adults showed that those subjects with a high intake of foods rich in beta­ carotene were much less likely to die from cancer or heart disease than were those with a low intake of such foods.

Apparent Paradox

A 24-year study of 1,500 adults showed that those subjects with a high intake of foods rich in beta-carotene were much less likely to die from cancer or heart disease than were those with a low intake of such foods.

On the other hand, taking beta-carotene supplements for 12 years had no positive or negative effect on the health of subjects in a separate study of 20,000 adults.

Evaluate

Why would the two studies have different implications about the impact of beta-carotene on one’s likelihood of dying from cancer or heart disease? For one the beta-carotene in the former study was food, while in the latter study it was a supplement.

17.

Each of the following, if true, would help to resolve the apparent discrepancy between the results of the two studies EXCEPT:

  1. The human body processes the

    Resolves the Discrepancy

    This provides a difference between food and a supplement that could explain the difference in outcomes for the two studies.

    2% picked this

  2. Beta-carotene must be taken for

    Resolves the Discrepancy

    This provides a difference between the two studies that could explain the difference in outcome.

    3% picked this

  3. Foods rich in beta-carotene also

    Resolves the Discrepancy

    This provides a difference between food and a supplement that could explain the difference in outcomes for the two studies.

    4% picked this

  4. Correct

    In the 12-year study, half

    Why this is right

    This only affects the study of beta-carotene supplements and does not provide a reason why beta-carotene taken by supplement may not be as effective as beta-carotene consumed through food.

    Skill tested: Paradox · how this choice captures the argument's function is the move to repeat next time.

    69% picked this

  5. In the 24-year study, the

    Resolves the Discrepancy

    This provides a difference between the two groups that could explain the difference in outcomes.

    21% picked this

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