PSAT Reading Question 614: Answer and Explanation

Question: 614

It is reasonable to infer that the author's primary interest in physics is its potential to

• A. provide practical inventions for everyday consumer use.
• B. give a military advantage to those empowered with its findings.
• C. advance medical science so that new cures for illness can be discovered.
• D. help us understand the nature of the universe.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

(D) The author's primary purpose is the celebration of knowledge for knowledge's sake. He is thrilled that new physics discoveries carry us closer to understanding how the world works on a small scale and how the universe works on a larger scale. There is no mention of military application, consumer use, or medical science as described in choices (A), (B), and (C), respectively.