Question

1. microbes that munch oil

topic: science/environment approx. lexile: ~760l (informational)
when oil spills into water, it can harm fish, birds, and peoples jobs. one helpful ally is microscopic bacteria. certain species \eat\ parts of oil, breaking long molecules into smaller pieces. scientists study which microbes work best in warm or cold water. they also study how much oxygen the microbes need. too little oxygen slows the cleanup. too much can stress other organisms. researchers must balance speed with safety. bioremediation—using living things to clean pollution—wont fix every spill. but paired with booms that skim the surface and crews that skim the surface, microbes can help waters heal faster.
what is the authors central claim regarding the role of microbes in oil - spill cleanup?
a microbes are too slow to help.
b oil spills are harmless.
c microbes can aid oil - spill cleanup when used carefully.
d boats cause all spills.

Explanation:

The text states that certain microbes "eat" parts of oil, breaking long - molecules into smaller pieces. It also mentions that researchers must balance factors like oxygen levels for safe and effective use. This indicates that when used carefully, microbes can help in oil - spill cleanup. Option A is incorrect as the text doesn't say microbes are too slow. Option B is wrong as it's clear oil spills are harmful. Option D is not mentioned in the text.

Answer:

C. Microbes can aid oil - spill cleanup when used carefully.