PSAT Reading Question 506: Answer and Explanation

Question: 506

As used in line 40, "inducing" most closely means

• A. causing.
• B. suggesting.
• C. releasing.
• D. persuading.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) This line says that Methanosphaera stadtmanae induces the release of proinflammatory cytokine TNF. This seems to be a cause-and-effect relationship: M. stadtmanae senses something and makes something else happen. Another way to describe this might be that M. stadtmanae triggers the release, or causes the release, choice (A). Choices (B) and (D) are too personified—it's more automated than something that is suggested or persuaded. Choice (C) doesn't work because the organisms can't release a release.