The birth rate in Country Z has decreased this year by 10% compared to last year. The death rate in Country Z has remained constant for several years. Consequently, the population of Country Z is declining significantly.

Which of the following is assumed by the author of the argument above?

Answer Choices

Correct answer marked below

The causes of the declining birthrate in Country Z can be identified through demographic studies.

Demographers can accurately forecast future population trends in Country Z.

Country A, which has a similar population size to Country Z, is undergoing the same demographic changes as Country Z.

There has been no substantial immigration into Country Z during the period in question.

Correct

The reasons for the declining birthrate in Country Z are mainly social in nature.

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Official Explanation

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The argument states that the birth rate in Country Z has decreased and the death rate has remained constant, leading to a decline in population. For this conclusion to hold, it must be assumed that there has not been…

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Comments

MikeFeb 25, 2025

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SpencerJan 27, 2025

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teraApr 20, 2025

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PriyadarshiniDec 30, 2024

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What this question tests

What it tests

Whether you can identify the unstated assumption a critical-reasoning argument depends on.

Common trap

Picking an option that strengthens the argument or is merely relevant instead of one that is required.

The birth rate in Country Z has decreased this year by 10% compared to last year. The death rate in Country Z has remained constant for several years. Consequently, the population of Country Z is declining significantly. Which of the following is assumed by the author of the argument above?