Question

1. analyze the argument made in this passage.

corals, the small sea creatures that form the spectacular coral reefs, are also endangered by global warming. as the ocean temperatures rise, the balance between corals and algae in the reefs is thrown off, and the corals die. additionally, the oceans are becoming more acidic as they take in excess carbon dioxide from the air. corals do not grow well in water with a high acid content. in the last twenty years, corals have already been affected all over the world. and since corals are a main food source for many sea animals, less coral could mean trouble for other marine life, including fish that humans eat.

which sentence is the best summary of the argument in this passage?

○ coral reefs provide food and shelter for all types of marine life throughout the world.

○ oceans maintain a delicate balance between the coral reefs and algae.

○ global warming is having a negative impact on coral reefs, as well as other marine life.

○ high levels of carbon dioxide in the air can make ocean water more acidotic.

Explanation:

The passage's core argument is that global warming harms corals (via warming waters and ocean acidification) and this harm extends to other marine life, including fish humans eat. The first option is incorrect as the passage does not state corals support all marine life. The second only covers one narrow detail, not the full argument. The fourth is just a supporting detail, not the main argument. The third option captures the overarching claim of global warming's negative impact on corals and related marine life.

Answer:

Global warming is having a negative impact on coral reefs, as well as other marine life.