Question

read the passage. scientists studying elephant herds have learned that these massive animals organize themselves according to a complex social hierarchy. for example, a matriarch—often the oldest and largest female elephant—is the herds leader. the matriarch sometimes guides several hundred elephants that can be divided into smaller family units. as individuals, female elephants have different levels of social importance based on factors such as age and experience. this intricate social levelling ensures that the herd functions cohesively and effectively for its survival. what is the meaning of hierarchy as used in the passage? a ranking system used to convey status or authority a breakdown of how relatives share a similar lineage a method of establishing equality within a group a structure that allows for the transfer of power

Explanation:

En el texto, se describe cómo las hembras de elefante tienen diferentes niveles de importancia social basados en factores como la edad y la experiencia, y que la matriarca es la líder. Esto indica que "hierarchy" se refiere a un sistema de clasificación que muestra el estatus o la autoridad.

Answer:

a ranking system used to convey status or authority