In the summer of 1999, a significant drought affected the agricultural regions of Southern Africa, leading to widespread crop failures. This situation suggests that prolonged dry spells can severely impact food production..

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

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Correct answer marked below

A recent study shows that crop yields in Southern Africa have been increasing despite the occurrence of droughts.

There is a correlation between drought conditions and increased pest populations that damage crops.

Farmers in Southern Africa have adopted new irrigation techniques that mitigate the effects of drought.

Correct

Historical data indicates that droughts have led to improved soil quality in the long term.

The drought in 1999 was followed by an unusually wet season that replenished water supplies.

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Explanation

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Official Explanation

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The argument states that prolonged dry spells can severely impact food production, implying that droughts lead to crop failures. To weaken this argument, we need evidence that suggests droughts do not necessarily lead to severe impacts on food production. The statement that most effectively weakens…

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Comments

4-DecFeb 27, 2025

greatt question!

AlessandroDec 15, 2024

thanks for taking time to upload it!

NishatApr 30, 2024

greatt question!

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.