PSAT Reading Question 84: Answer and Explanation

Question: 84

Which claim about domestic steel production is supported by the graph?

• A. Between 1950 and 2000, production consistently increased.
• B. Production was stagnant between 1950 and 2000.
• C. Production peaked in the 1960s, followed by a steep decline in the 1970s.
• D. Net production increased slightly from 1950 to 2000.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

D

The question asks for a claim about domestic steel production that is supported by the graph. Work through each answer choice using the graph. Domestic steel production had periods of decrease as well as increase from 1950 to 2000; eliminate (A) and (B). Eliminate (C), as the peak of domestic steel production occurred in the 1970s, not the 1960s, and had a steep decline in the 1980s. Choice (D) is supported by the graph: the domestic steel production was just under 100 million tons in 1950 and just over 100 million tons in 2000, so the net production had increased slightly. The correct answer is (D).