PSAT Reading Question 613: Answer and Explanation

Question: 613

What is the purpose of the sentence in lines 59–61 ("It is as if . . . invite exploration")?

• A. To use an analogy to illustrate a concept
• B. To describe the latest scientific evidence
• C. To make connections between physics and biology
• D. To express dismay at the state of modern science

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

(A) In lines 59–61, the best indication that this is an analogy is provided by the words "it is as if. . . ." As indicates that this is a simile, which is a type of analogy. The author uses the image of peeling an onion to make clearer the concept of physics discoveries of late: peel a layer (discover something new) only to find that there are more layers (more discoveries yet to be found) beneath the layer just peeled. Choice (D) is incorrect in that the author is celebrating these discoveries rather than lamenting them. Choice (C) is flawed in that the onion is used metaphorically rather than literally biologically. Choice (B) is flawed in that no new evidence is being described; it is merely being compared metaphorically to something else.