Question

1. part a: read the subheading from the passage. \play puzzles scientists. why do animals spend time and energy doing silly things that seem to have no purpose?\ how does the author answer the question?

a. by providing descriptions of how animals play
b. by providing examples of different animals that play
c. by providing details of research studies on playing animals
d. by providing explanations of how different types of play help animals

Explanation:

To answer why animals spend time and energy in seemingly purposeless play, the most comprehensive way is to show how different types of play benefit animals. Describing how they play (A) or listing examples of playing - animals (B) doesn't directly address the 'why' question. Details of research studies (C) may be part of the evidence, but the key is to explain the function of play.

Answer:

D. by providing explanations of how different types of play help animals