PSAT Reading Question 501: Answer and Explanation

Question: 501

The author most likely uses the final sentence of the passage (lines 57–58, "One must . . . soil") to suggest

• A. that geological exploration deserves funding.
• B. that further study of fungi is warranted.
• C. skepticism about the prospects for scientific research.
• D. a more balanced approach to the analysis of fungi.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) This sentence beckons the reader to ask what is left to be discovered if some of our biggest findings in medicine have been the accidental results of studying fungi. The author is hinting that it's almost certain that fungi have more benefits to provide but that we must look for them. Thus, choice (B) is correct. Choice (A) is wrong because the author mentions neither geology nor funding. Choice (C) is wrong because the author thinks there's much research left to be done, and choice (D) is wrong because nowhere in the passage does the author criticize mycology.