Digital PSAT Reading and Writing Practice Question 260: Answer and Explanation

Question: 260

While researching a topic, a student has made the following notes:

• The Heliocentric Model has the Earth and other planets revolving around the sun.
• Ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle was a proponent of the Heliocentric Model.
• The Geocentric Model has the sun and other planetary bodies revolving around the Earth.
• Ancient Greek philosopher Ptolemy was a proponent of the Geocentric Model.
• The Heliocentric Model eventually became dominant after Copernicus demonstrated that it better utilized mathematics to explain astronomical observations.

The student wants to emphasize a similarity between the Heliocentric and Geocentric theories. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information to accomplish this goal?

• A. The Heliocentric and Geocentric models are both widely accepted by scientists today.
• B. Both the Heliocentric and Geocentric models incorporate rotational movement.
• C. The Geocentric and Heliocentric models were both widely known by the citizens of ancient Greece.
• D. Aristotle and Copernicus were both eminent scientists who lived in ancient Greece.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

B. Both the Geocentric and Heliocentric models involve “revolving” of astronomical bodies, meaning they both incorporate rotational movement. It is not A, because the notes indicate that the Heliocentric theory became dominant. It is not C, because there is no evidence in the notes to suggest that citizens in ancient Greece widely knew these theories. It is not D, because the nationality of Copernicus is not mentioned in the notes.