After studying the ocean currents and the 7-year cycle of El Niño events for 30 years, researchers have concluded that increased El Niño activity leads to significant changes in marine biodiversity. They suggest that marine biologists will be able to enhance their conservation strategies based on this finding.

Which of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the argument above?

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Correct answer marked below

Marine biodiversity changes are primarily influenced by factors other than El Niño events.

Correct

Researchers have proven that El Niño events directly impact marine biodiversity.

Conservation strategies have improved significantly in the last 30 years regardless of El Niño activity.

The reasons behind the 7-year cycle of El Niño events are still not fully understood.

It has been shown that changes in ocean currents can predict shifts in marine biodiversity.

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Explanation

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Official Explanation

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The argument states that increased El Niño activity leads to changes in marine biodiversity, suggesting that this knowledge will help improve conservation strategies. To weaken this argument, we need to provide evidence that challenges the direct link between El Niño and marine biodiversity. Option 0 states that 'Marine…

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Comments

NelseeApr 7, 2025

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ChrisFeb 23, 2024

how much time should this take to solve?

khanMar 25, 2025

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What this question tests

What it tests

Whether you can identify the option that most undermines an argument's conclusion.

Common trap

Choosing an irrelevant objection or one that attacks the premise rather than the reasoning.