Question

part c: inference questions (21 - 30)
use the text to make logical inferences. cite evidence.

1. why might alaska have a small population despite its size?
2. what can we infer about transportation in alaska’s remote areas?
3. how do long daylight hours affect farming in alaska?
4. why might winters impact mental health?
5. how could alaska’s economy change if oil resources decline?
6. why do tourists value seeing the northern lights?
7. what can you infer about costs of food and goods in alaska?
8. how might alaska’s wildlife be connected to its cultural traditions?
9. why is resilience especially important for alaskans?
10. what can you infer about tourism’s role in alaska’s future?

Explanation:

1. Harsh climate (cold winters, long - term weather extremes) and remote location may deter settlement.
2. Difficult terrain and low population density likely mean limited and challenging transportation options like few roads and reliance on air or water transport.
3. Long daylight hours can potentially extend the growing season but may also disrupt plant circadian rhythms if not adapted.
4. Winters in Alaska are long, dark, and cold, which can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and other mental health issues due to lack of sunlight.
5. If oil resources decline, Alaska's economy, which is heavily dependent on oil revenues, may face budget shortfalls, job losses, and need to diversify.
6. The Northern Lights are a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon, a unique visual experience that is not easily seen in many other places.
7. Due to its remote location and high transportation costs, the cost of food and goods in Alaska is likely to be higher.
8. Alaska's indigenous cultures have long - standing relationships with local wildlife, using animals for food, clothing, and in cultural ceremonies.
9. Alaskans face natural disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, and extreme weather, so resilience is crucial for survival and recovery.
10. Tourism could play an increasingly important role in Alaska's future economy, providing jobs and revenue as more people are interested in its natural beauty and unique experiences.

Answer:

1. Harsh climate and remote location deter settlement.
2. Limited and challenging transportation due to terrain and low population density.
3. Can extend growing season but may disrupt plant rhythms.
4. Long, dark, cold winters can cause SAD and other mental health issues.
5. May face budget shortfalls, job losses, need to diversify.
6. It is a rare and beautiful natural phenomenon.
7. Likely to be higher due to remote location and high transport costs.
8. Indigenous cultures have long - standing relationships with wildlife for various uses.
9. Face natural disasters, so resilience is crucial for survival and recovery.
10. Could play an increasingly important role in the economy, providing jobs and revenue.