PSAT Reading Question 9: Answer and Explanation

Question: 9

The passages differ in that Passage 1

• A. does not discuss the possibility of using multiple materials for base polymers, while Passage 2 does.
• B. provides information on electrospun scaffolding construction, while Passage 2 looks to the future of electrospun scaffolding research.
• C. is concerned only with drug delivery systems to address cancers, while Passage 2 aims to treat all diseases.
• D. advocates that the type of polymer base used for electrospun scaffolds is unimportant, while Passage 2 advocates that the type of polymer base is important.

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The question asks for a difference between the passages. Consider one passage at a time. Lines 56–64 discuss the combination of natural polymers such as collagen and elastin. Therefore, Passage 1 does discuss the possibility of using multiple materials for base polymers, so eliminate (A). Lines 12–36 describe the process by which [e]lectrospinning creates biodegradable scaffolds. Therefore, Passage 1 provides information on electrospun scaffolding construction; keep (B). Lines 8–9 mention treating both infections and cancers. Passage 1 is not concerned only with drug delivery systems to address cancers, so eliminate (C). Alternatively, (C) could be eliminated based on Passage 2. Lines 44–47 state that natural polymers have a greater ability to perform more effectively than synthetic polymers do in the treatment of human disease, contradicting the idea that the type of polymer base used for electrospun scaffolds is unimportant. Eliminate (D). Choice (B) is supported by Passage 2: lines 99–103 say that a spike of research about electrospun scaffolds is likely to continue for some time. Therefore, Passage 2 looks to the future of electrospun scaffolding research. The correct answer is (B).