SAT Reading and Writing Practice Question #591 (Hard (800)) | Test Citadel
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SAT Reading and Writing Difficulty: Hard (800)

Digital SAT Reading and Writing Practice Question #591

Test your problem-solving accuracy on this official-caliber item. Select an answer choice to check your reasoning instantly.

Isotopic analysis of marine microfossils, specifically the ratio of oxygen-18 to oxygen-16, is a cornerstone of paleoclimatology. Traditionally, an increase in oxygen-18 in these fossils has been interpreted strictly as a decrease in global temperatures, as lighter oxygen-16 evaporates more readily during colder periods, leaving the ocean enriched in oxygen-18. However, marine biologist Dr. Aris Thorne argues that this model oversimplifies the isotopic record. Thorne asserts that prolonged shifts in regional oceanic salinity, primarily driven by shifting tectonic barriers that isolate major ocean basins, can produce identical isotopic signatures in microfossils even when global temperatures remain remarkably stable. Which finding, if true, would most directly support Dr. Thorne’s assertion?
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Socratic AI Engine Step-by-Step Derivation
0ms Precomputed
Tactical Insight (Hint 1)

Rely strictly on explicit statements in the passage. Eliminate any option that requires external assumptions or twists the author's stated nuance.

Elimination Framework (Hint 2)

Elimination Strategy: In digital reading/writing, 3 out of 4 choices contain an active flaw (half-right/half-wrong, too extreme, or wrong transition type). Cross out options with absolute words like "always", "proves", or "never".

Masterclass Solution & Distractor Trap Analysis

Alright, let's break down this dense scientific passage! We are dealing with a classic Strengthen/Weaken question. First, we need to clearly identify Dr. Thorne's core claim. The traditional model says: High Oxygen-18 = Global Cooling. Thor...

Distractor Analysis: Trap choice eliminates careless test-takers who confuse roots with coordinates...

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