Practice Test Missed Questions - Kaplan #8

Implicit in the passage's discussion of the circumstances under which makers of opinion must take responsibility is the assumption that: (CARS, Question #2)

"Assumption" -- Inference within the passage Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Find the relevant part of the passage (P1) -- what is the implicit assumption? Wording/language was difficult in this passage. (UNDERSTANDING! READING!)

When an acyl halide reacts with a primary alcohol, which of the following will form? A. An ester B. An ether C. A secondary alcohol D. A carboxylic acid (Chem/Phys, Question #14)

A. An ester In this reaction, the carbon of the acyl halide acts as the electrophile -- it is having electron density pulled away by both the carbonyl oxygen and the halogen. Alcohol, with its lone pairs of electrons on oxygen, can then attack, pushing up electrons onto the carbonyl oxygen. Those electrons reform a double bond kicking off the halide, which is a good leaving group. Lastly, the oxygen from the alcohol group loses its proton (and positive charge) and we are left with an ester. Why missed? Did not know the structure of acyl halide (a carbonyl carbon attached to R group and halide group). (CONTENT!) Think -- Aunt Ester!

Which of the following best exemplifies a primary circular reaction during the sensorimotor stage of development? A. An infant repeatedly vocalizing the same syllable B. An infant repeatedly banging their fist against a wall C. An infant understanding that a toy which is taken out of their view continues to exist D. An infant considering a person to "disappear" during a game when they hide their face (Psych/Soc, Question #57)

A. An infant repeatedly vocalizing the same syllable Circular reactions are named for their repetitive nature. PRIMARY circular reactions involve a repetitive behavior which the child finds soothing SECONDARY circular behavior are those which involve a repetitive behavior that involves and affects their environment (A) describes a PRIMARY circular reaction -- so is correct. (B) describes a SECONDARY circular reaction -- so is INcorrect Why missed? Did not know the difference between primary and secondary circular reactions. Primary = soothing repetitive behavior Secondary = repetitive behavior involving/affecting their environment (CONTENT!)

According to Piaget's stages of cognitive development, the children in the passage's study would be most likely to exhibit which of the following patterns of behavior? A. Assert that a cake cut into eight pieces is larger than an identical cake cut into four pieces B. Ability to manipulate abstract symbols to solve puzzles and problems C. The ability to sympathize with the feelings of others D. Engagement in counterfactual thinking and ability to imagine new realities (Psych/Soc, Question #1)

A. Assert that a cake cut into eight pieces is larger than an identical cake cut into four pieces Children 4-6 yo (age of children in the study) are in the middle of the preoperational stage (ages 2-7). Children in the preoperational stage are still at the point where they lack the concept of conservation -- (concept of conservation = the principle quantity remains the same despite changes in shape) (B) and (D) are INCORRECT b/c are examples of formal operation -- this develops around age 12 (C) is representative of the development of a theory of mind -- this does not fully take shape until the concrete operational stage Why missed? Need to review Piaget's stages of cognitive development. Thought (D) was correct b/c of the imagination -- but this doesn't happen until later in child's life. (CONTENT!)

The graph below shows the changes in entropy when a protein with non-polar groups is immersed in a solvent of water. Basedon the data, what happens between 2 and 3? (Assume enthalpy remains constant) A. Clustering of non-polar groups in solvent makes the Gibbs free energy more negative B. Increase in solvation layer dimensions makes the Gibbs free energy more negative C. Clustering of non-polar groups in solvent makes the Gibbs free energy more positive D. Increase in solvation layer dimensions makes Gibbs free energy more positive (Bio/Biochem, Question #24)

A. Clustering of non-polar groups in solvent makes the Gibbs free energy more negative An increase in entropy indicates a greater degree of hydrogen bond network in the water solvent, or less interruption by non-polar protein groups. This is achieved by the clustering of these nonpolar protein groups. An increase in entropy is also, as per the Gibbs formula, lowers Gibbs value. Why missed? Knew that the Gibbs free energy would be becoming more negative. BUT -- got the reasoning wrong. Increasing the solvation layer dimensions (as selected in B) would DECREASE entropy (increase the order) -- so this would not work. Clustering of non-polar groups would INCREASE entropy (increase the disorder) -- and would therefore make Gibbs free energy more negative. (REASONING! APPLICATION!)

A conservationist would like to test the acidity of a sample of rainwater by titrating it with 0.05M NaOH. What additional information is needed to calculate the initial number of moles of H2CO3 in the sample? I. Volume of NaOH used to reach the end point II. Ka of H2CO3 III. Initial volume of rainwater in the sample A. I only B. I and II only C. I and III only D. I, II, and III (Chem/Phys, Question #57)

A. I only The goal is to find the number of moles of H2CO3 -- NOT the concentration! Therefore, it is only necessary to know how many moles of NaOH were required to reach equivalence (Answer I). The volume does not matter here because we just want the number of moles -- not the concentration. If we wanted the concentration of the starting material, then we would need II. III is irrelevant completely b/c we are using a strong base to titrate. Why missed? Did not consider that volume was not needed since we just needed MOLES, not concentration. (UNDERSTANDING! READING!) Also -- did not know that Ka was irrelevant when using a strong base to titrate. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following best describes the response of the skeletal system to increased levels of PTH? A. Osteoclast activity increases because bone breakdown will raise blood calcium levels. B. Osteoclast activity decreases because high levels of blood calcium trigger bone formation. Osteoblast activity increases because bone remodeling will raise blood calcium levels. D. Osteoblast activity decreases because high levels of blood calcium trigger bone breakdown. (Bio/Biochem, Question #6)

A. Osteoclast activity increases because bone breakdown will raise blood calcium levels. Osteoclasts are cells that break down bones Osteoblasts are cells that lay down bone The goal of PTH = raise blood calcium. (A) is CORRECT b/c stimulation of osteoclasts breaks down bone, which releases calcium from bone into the blood. Why missed? Misinterpreted the relation between PTH and calcium levels in blood. PTH raises the blood calcium -- so we need an answer choice that explains a raise in blood calcium. (UNDERSTANDING! APPLICATION!) Osteoclasts break down bones -- the breakdown of bones will increase blood calcium levels. (CONTENT!)

A researcher studying transposition discovered a new strain of cells that have a 1000-fold greater rate of transposition than other strains. Which of the following explanations would best account for this observation? A. The new strain lacks the dam methylation system. B. The new strain transcribes 500 copies of OUT RNA per copy of IN RNA. C. Only one copy of the target sequence is present after insertion of the transposon into the new strain's DNA. D. The overlap between the transcripts from Pin and Pout in the new strain is twice as many base pairs as the other strains. (Bio/Biochem, Question #54)

A. The new strain lacks the dam methylation system. The dam methylation system (mentioned in P4) regulates the rate of transposition and the activation of Tn10 with DNA replication. Lack of methylation on the daughter strand of newly synthesized DNA activates the transposon by increasing the transcription of the transposase gene and enhancing the binding of this enzyme to the transposon. If cell lacked dam methylation system -- there would NOT be any methylation of the strain's DNA --> incidence of transposition would be expected to be much HIGHER than in strains w/ methylation system. Why missed? Did not find specific proof from passage. Needed to find information relevant to increase in transposition -- this is in passage as when a system lacks the methylation system. (READING! UNDERSTANDING! MISSING PROOF!)

Based on the information in the passage, with which of the following statements about opinions would the author most likely agree? (CARS, Question #1)

Agree/Disagree -- Reasoning WITHIN the text Why missed? Ran out of time (TIMING!) Did not find the relevant part of the passage for this question. Needed to look for author's opinion -- then solidify what the opinion was, and match answer choice. (STRATEGY! READING! UNDERSTANDING!)

Based on the passage, the author most likely believes that the major cause of controversy in Moldova today is the issue of: (CARS, Question #45)

Author opinion -- Foundations of Comprehension Why missed? Did not select an answer that went with the main theme of this question stem -- needed to broaden the scope -- selected too specific of an answer that was only relevant to a specific part of the question. (APPLICATION! UNDERSTANDING!)

As presented by the author in the passage, the analog position of mental representation argues that: (CARS, Question #48)

Author opinion -- Main idea -- Foundations of Comprehension Why missed? Chose a faulty use of detail answer. Answered this question from 'memory' on waht I recognized from the passage -- BAD way to do it! Needed specific support for the answer choice. (PROOF NEEDED!)

With which of the following statements would the author most likely NOT agree? (CARS, Question #24)

Author opinion -- agree/disagree -- Reasoning WITHIN the Text Why missed? Did not find the specific evidence -- NEED to find evidence IN the passage that supports the answer choice! (APPLICATION! READING!) Chose OPPOSITE answer choice.

Which energy values in Figure 1 could be altered by the introduction of a catalyst? A. 1 only B. 1 and 2 only C. 3 and 5 only D. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 (Chem/Phys, Question #19)

B. 1 and 2 only Energy differences labeled 1 and 2 = activation energies of the reaction (2 = activation energy of reverse reaction) Energy differences 3 and 4 = potential energies of reactants and products Energy difference 5 = potential energy difference of the reaction A catalyst is a substance that accelerates the reaction by lowering one or more of the activation energies of the reaction. A catalyst does NOT change the ∆H of the reaction (∆H = state function). Why missed? Did not consider the reverse reaction activation energy. Knew the content - that catalysts only affect the activation energy of the reaction - but did not consider reverse reaction. (REASONING! UNDERSTANDING!)

If the neoprene suit occupied 4 liters on land, approximately how many moles of air would need to be added to the buoyancy compensator to maintain neutral buoyancy at a gauge pressure of 1 atm? A. 3.4/22.4 B. 1.6/22.4 C. 11.2 D. 22.4 (Chem/Phys, Question #49)

B. 1.6/22.4 The air in the neoprene initially occupied 1.6 L (40% of 4L). The new pressure is 2atm (remember -- total pressure = atmospheric pressure + gauge pressureI). Using Boyle's Law (P1xV1 = P2xV2), we know that the new volume of air in the suit is 0.8L. We require 0.8L of air from the buoyancy compensator -- which would be (0.8/22.4 moles) at 1atm of pressure. BUT -- we are now at 2atm of pressure -- so we require twice as many moles of gas -- so 1.6/22.4. Why missed? Did not know the calculation -- and did not use Boyle's law. (CALCULATION) Also -- did not take into account that we were just looking at the air in the suit (the 40% volume). (READING! STRATEGY! UNDERSTANDING!)

If a person were to witness behavior mirroring the data in the study, which of the following would be the best application of social cognitive theory? A. In order to be considered more friendly, a person with a low BMI works to downplay his or her successes in social settings. B. An obese person works tirelessly to lose weight when a management vacancy for which he or she will apply is announced. C. A person of very low BMI attempts to gain weight in order to increase the number of people he or she is likely to socialize with. D. A mildly overweight person does not attempt to socialize with a group of obese people, fearing rejection. (Psych/Soc, Question #21)

B. An obese person works tirelessly to lose weight when a management vacancy for which he or she will apply is announced. Social cognitive theory is based on people changing behavior or attitudes based on observation. The correct answer will highlight a behavior change that mirrors the data. (B) does this -- because lower weight is associated with greater success, so the person interested in a management job would like to appear more successful. (A) is INCORRECT -- distorts the data -- while trends of success and friendliness are opposite, it is never implied that lowering one will raise the other. (C) is INCORRECT -- not supported by the data -- those w/ a very low BMI are not discussed, and it's stated that some people would not associate with those who are more overweight, which would not apply to this person. (D) is INCORRECT -- it is nearly the opposite -- higher BMI was positively correlated w/ friendliness in the study. Why missed? Did not take this question in the context of the study. Needed to go back and ensure answer choice answered the question in an applicable way to the study. (APPLICATION!) Also needed to rephrase -- to (1) find answer choice that was an application of social cognitive theory (2) find an answer choice that mirrored the data/conclusions of the study. (REPHRASING!)

Which of the following statements regarding surgical removal of a parathyroid gland is supported by information in the passage? A. Surgical therapy is necessary in people with high PTH levels. B. Blood PTH levels fall rapidly following the removal of an overactive parathyroid gland. C. Kidney, bone, and intestinal disease result if PTH levels fall following surgery. D. Circulating calcium levels will be symptomatically low following the removal of a parathyroid gland. (Bio/Biochem, Question #9)

B. Blood PTH levels fall rapidly following the removal of an overactive parathyroid gland. Key to answering this question = the information that the half-life of PTH is only a few minutes. (B) is correct -- b/c once the source o the excess PTH is removed, the hormone circulating in the body will be exhausted quickly. Why missed? Chose an answer that sounded good, but was not supported by the passage. (MISSING PROOF!) Also -- did not apply concepts broadly enough to answer choice. (APPLICATION!)

When action potential induces muscle contraction, which of the following occurs? A. Ca2+ is released into the cytosol; Ca2+ binds to tropomyosin B. Ca2+ is released into the cytosol; Ca2+ binds to troponin complex C. Ca2+ is pumped into the sarcoplasmic reticulum; Ca2+ binds to tropomyosin D. Ca2+ is pumped into the sarcoplasmic reticulum; Ca2+ binds to troponin complex (Bio/Biochem, Question #47)

B. Ca2+ is released into the cytosol; Ca2+ binds to troponin complex An action potential resulting in muscle contraction causes t-tubule depolarization --> followed by sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) release of Ca2+ Ca2+ binds to troponin complex --> allows tropomyosin to expose myosin-bonding sites on actin. Why missed? Did not remember the process/mechanism of muscle contraction. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following best explains the use of D-amino acids by bacteria in peptidoglycan synthesis? A. Bacterial environments contain only D-amino acids. B. D-amino acids are poorly recognized by other species. C. D-amino acids have preferable physical properties. D. D-amino acids can be easily substituted with L-amino acids. (Chem/Phys, Question #41)

B. D-amino acids are poorly recognized by other species. This question incorporates some basic biological knowledge w/ background in stereochemistry. We are looking for an answer that is advantageous to bacterium by preventing its degradation or enhancing pathogenicity. (A) is INCORRECT -- bacteria can live in a wide variety of environments, and will have a variety of amino acids available to them. (C) is INCORRECT -- enantiomers have the same physical properties, with the exception of the direction of polarization for plane-polarized light, which would confer no plausible advantage. (D) is INCORRECT -- enzymes are typically stereospecific, so this is unlikely to be true. Why missed? Needed to rephrase -- why would using D-amino acids be advantageous to the bacteria in their synthesis of peptidoglycan (make up cell walls). When looking at the question this way, we don't need the rest of the passage -- just need to answer based on what would be an advantage to bacteria specifically. (STRATEGY! REPHRASING!) Also -- was thinking of D-sugars, not D-amino acids. (READING! UNDERSTANDING! CONTENT CONFUSION!)

In the absence of a pH meter, which of the following indicator solutions is most appropriateto use for measuring the initial pH of stomach acid by titration with NaOH? In the absence of a pH meter, which of the following indicator solutions is most appropriate for a titration of stomach acid with NaOH? I. Gentian violet: 0.0-2.0 II. Phenol red: 6.4-8.0 III. Indigo carmine: 11.4-13.0 A. I only B. II only C. III only D. I, II, or III (Chem/Phys, Question #36)

B. II only The stomach produces HCl (a strong acid). The titrant is NaOH (a strong base). For this titration, the pH of the equivalence point is 7 -- locate the region of the table that has 7 within the response range for the indicator. Phenol red is the only choice with 7 within the range. Why missed? Was thinking of matching the indicator to the pH of stomach acid alone -- but this is WRONG! We want the pH of the equivalence point (7) to indicate when the solution has been fully neutralized in the titration. (APPLICATION!) (CONTENT!)

Which of the following best explains why the experimenter did not see a correlation between B12 levels and intrinsic factor levels? A. Intrinsic factor has no correlation to B12 levels B. Intrinsic factor is correlated to B12 levels in blood and not chyme C. Intrinsic factor is correlated to B12 only at low pH levels D. Intrinsic factor is correlated to B12 only at high pH levels (Chem/Phys, Question #38)

B. Intrinsic factor is correlated to B12 levels in blood and not chyme Vitamin deficiencies are NOT assessed by levels in the gut -- but by levels in the blood Paragraph 2 states that the pool of B12 in the stomach is not yet usable by the body. The passage indicates that there is a causal relationship between B12 deficiency and a lack of intrinsic factor. This leads us to differences between the experiment described where we measured B12 in chyme, and the clinical description where B12 is low in the blood. Thus, we should expect to see a correlation if we measured B12 in the blood -- so (B) is most likely the error made by the experimenter. Why missed? Did not find the relevant information in the passage to guide answering this question (READING!)

If a neuron is first measure at resting potential but later is found to require application of +3 mA of current to return to -60 mV, which of the following could explain the neuron's net ion flow between the two measurements? A. Positive ions flowed into the cell B. Positive ions flowed out of the cell C. Negative ions flowed out of the cell D. Sodium ions flowed into the cell (Chem/Phys, Question #55)

B. Positive ions flowed out of the cell The applied current is positive into the cell, so the cell itself is negative. The axon becomes more negative when positive ions leave the cell or when negative ions move into the cell. (B) is the only answer that satisfies this -- all other answer choices are opposite. Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Also -- did not use good strategy. Even though I got stuck, I should have looked at the answer choices to eliminate which answers were saying the same thing, and could have arrived at the answer that way. (STRATEGY!)

Suppose that multiple newly created amino acids interact to build a small protein molecule. The primary structure of that protein is formed when: A. The R group of one amino acid forms intermolecular attractions with the R group of another. B. The amino-terminus of one amino acid attacks the carboxy terminus of another. C. The amino terminus of one amino acid forms H bonds with the carboxy-terminus of another. D. The carboxy-terminus of one amino acid attacks the amino terminus of another. (Chem/Phys, Question #1)

B. The amino-terminus of one amino acid attacks the carboxy terminus of another. The primary structure of a polypeptide refers to the order in which amino acids are connected to one another. That connection consists of peptide bonds. Peptide bonds occur when the lone pair of electrons on one amino-terminus nucleophilically attack the carbonyl carbon of another amino acid's carboxy-terminus. Why missed? Forgot the structure of the peptide bond (N-terminus connected to C-terminus) (NO oxygen in the peptide bond!) CONTENT!

Which of the following is the largest potential flaw in the passage's model for aggression/avoidance behavior? A. The model posits that two avoiders will share a resource, when such behavior is not actually observed in the wild. B. The model fails to account for the fact that even the winner in an aggressor/aggressor fight may be injured. C. The model ignores situations in which two avoiders meet and one leaves, believing the other to be an aggressor. D. The model ignores situations in which two aggressors meet and one leaves, believing the other to be an avoider. (Psych/Soc, Question #39)

B. The model fails to account for the fact that even the winner in an aggressor/aggressor fight may be injured. In the payoff matrix, the aggressor/aggressor payoff is calculated by assuming that 50% of the time the aggressor wins V -- and 50% of the time the aggressor incurs a cost C. Summing the probabilities leads to V/2 - C/2 -- BUT this underestimates the expected cost since it assumes that the winner will be uninjured. (A) is INCORRECT -- there are examples in the animal kingdom of altruistic sharing of resources. (C) is INCORRECT-- this outcome does not conform to the way avoiders were described in the passage. Even if it were the case that sometimes avoiders left prematurely, it would also seem reasonable that those avoiders have an equal chance of meeting an avoider who leaves the resource to them -- this would make the payoff remain V/2. (D) is INCORRECT -- b/c of similar reasons to (C). Why missed? Chose an answer that was not supported by information in the passage. (MISSING PROOF!) Also -- read the question stem as only applying to "avoider/aggressor" situations -- but it was referencing the matrix possibilities as a whole. (READING! UNDERSTANDING!)

Experimenters isolate a biological sample believed to be composed entirely of glycine. In order to confirm their belief, they can hydrolyze the peptide and then: A. Use separation techniques to determine if the sample contains amino acids with hydrophobic R groups. B. Use polarized light in order to determine whether or not the sample is optically active. C. Raise the pH of the sample and apply an electric field to test for the presence of zwitterions. D. Titrate the sample with NaOH to determine if it contains amino acids with acidic R groups. (Chem/Phys, Question #2)

B. Use polarized light in order to determine whether or not the sample is optically active. Glycine is the only achiral amino acid. Therefore, a sample of pure glycine will NOT be optically active. (B) would help determine whether the protein contains any amino acids apart from glycine, because as the passage states, most biological systems only use L-amino acids. Why missed? Did not reason through the answers well. Thought of answers in terms of what would identify glycine, but did not consider what would eliminate glycine as a possibility. (REASONING! STRATEGY!) Also - when choosing (A), did not consider that glycine is NOT hydrophobic - and this would identify other AA not of interest.

Which of the following compounds is expected to have the highest melting point? A. Glycine B. Valine C. Ethanol D. Butane (Chem/Phys, Question #32)

B. Valine Valine is the LARGEST of the answer choices -- this increases the dispersion forces. Valine is also capable of strong dipole-dipole interactions (including hydrogen bonding). Based on this, valine would be expected to have the highest melting point. Why missed? Was thinking of just the side chain of valine, not the entire AA structure. (REASONING!) Also -- was thinking of hydrogen bonding only, but size, dipole-dipole interactions, and London dispersion forces play a role. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following questions directed to all participants would most help to validate or invalidate the hypothesis that the objectivity of the study was influenced by participants' projections of their own self-concept onto the photographs? A. Is your partner of similar, greater, or lesser weight (BMI) than you? B. Would you be more professionally successful if you weighed less? C. Do you have family members who are of greater weight (BMI) than you? D. Are you aware of your own BMI? (Psych/Soc, Question #20)

B. Would you be more professionally successful if you weighed less? The correct answer should be relevant to what exactly the study tries to conclude AND should deal with the participants' identity and/or self-concept. (B) would do this -- because if a high percentage of participants believed that their success would be improved by losing weight, then they would potentially be projecting their own feelings. (A) is INCORRECT -- unlikely to help since opposite gender ratings were more sporadic -- there is no clear evidence in the data that there was any problem with objectivity in evaluating opposite genders. (C) is INCORRECT -- does not provide direct information about the participants own self-concept. (D) is INCORRECT -- it does involve self-concept, but it does not provide information about undesired feelings that might be projected onto another Why missed? Selected an answer that was partially applicable, but did not answer the full question. (MISSING PROOF!) Needed to rephrase the question to find what components needed to be included in the answer choice -- (1) self-concept/participant's identity (2) relevance to goal of the study. (REPHRASING!)

Researchers investigated how curare administration affects skeletal muscle. The scientists measured the number of muscle twitches per second after injections of curare and/or acetylcholine, as shown in the chart below. Based on this information, curare most likely acts as a(n): A. competitive acetylcholine receptor agonist B. competitive acetylcholine receptor antagonist C. noncompetitive acetylcholine receptor antagonist D. uncompetitive acetylcholine receptor agonist (Bio/Biochem, Question #48)

B. competitive acetylcholine receptor antagonist Agonist promotes something. Antagonist inhibits something. Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter that stimulates the contraction of skeletal muscle -- so the presence of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft will cause an increase in the muscle twitch frequency. Curare acts as an antagonist because the administration of curare decreases twitch frequency. We can infer that curare deactivates acetylcholine receptors. Data indicates that administering BOTH acetylcholine and curare will partially offset the effects of curare -- this indicates that curare is a competitive inhibitor. (If it were noncompetitive, increasing the concentration of acetylcholine would have no effect). Why missed? Could deduce that it was a competitive inhibitor -- this was correct. BUT it is an ANTAGONIST -- not an agonist -- it acts AGAINST. (CONTENT!) (APPLICATION!)

As non-polar protein groups cluster in water, the water experiences a(n): A. decrease in entropy B. increase in entropy C. decrease in hydrogen-bonding D. increase in the solvation layer (Bio/Biochem, Question #21)

B. increase in entropy The organization of the solvation layer causes a decrease in entropy. So -- the clustering of non-polar groups diminishes the solvation layer -- this causes a favorable increase in entropy The increase in entropy is the predominant thermodynamic influence resulting in the clustering of non-polar groups in polar solvents (like water). Why missed? Mixed up the definition of entropy. INCREASE in entropy = INCREASE in DISORDER When more non-polar groups cluster in water, they disrupt the solvation layer -- the disruption of solvation layer increases the disorder -- increase in disorder = increase in entropy. (APPLICATION!)

Ozone has a high oxidation potential, and will readily decompose urea: (NH2)2CO + O3 --> N2 + CO2 + 2H2O. IN this reaction, what is the oxidation number of carbon as a reactant and product, respectively? A. -2 and +4 B. +2 and +4 C. +4 and +4 D. +4 and -4 (Chem/Phys, Question #22)

C. +4 and +4 Oxidation number of carbon in CO2: - Oxygen has an oxidation number of -2 --> there are two oxygens, so a total of -4 - CO2 is a neutral molecule, so oxidation of carbon must be +4 Oxidation number of carbon in urea: - Nitrogen has an oxidation number of -3 --> there are two nitrogens, so a total of -6 - Hydrogen has an oxidation number of +1 --> there are four hydrogens, so a total of +4 - Oxygen has an oxidation number of -2 - SO --> (-6 + 4 - 2 = -4) --> urea is neutral, so oxidation of carbon must be +4 Why missed? Did not know the oxidation of nitrogen. Just look at the periodic table! (STRATEGY! UNDERSTANDING!)

Based on the data in Table 1, what is the net charge on the R-groups of the five amino acids listed for S. cerevisiae tubulin at pH 7.4? A. -2 B. -1 C. 0 D. 1 (Bio/Biochem, Question #43)

C. 0 Amino acids listed in the table: alanine, threonine, glycine, asparagine, tyrosine None of these have any charge. The only charged amino acids are glutamic acid (-1), aspartic acid (-1), arginine (+1), and lysine (+1). None of the charged amino acids are listed, so net charge of 0. Why missed? Misread / Miscalculated. Know the charges and structures of AA, but careless mistake. (STUPID MISTAKE!)

Given R1 = 3 Ohms and R2 = 1 Ohm, and that the potential between d and f is -25 mV, how many electrons pass through point f in 4 seconds and in which direction? (The charge of an electron is -1.6 x 10^-19 C) A. 3.54 x 10^-28 away from the cell B. 2.04 x 10^16 toward the cell C. 1.56 x 10^17 away from the cell D. 1.84 x 10^-27 toward the cell (Chem/Phys, Question #56)

C. 1.56 x 10^17 away from the cell If the voltage change is negative between d and f, then the current is moving toward the cell and electrons must be moving away from the cell -- this eliminates (B) and (D). We now must calculate current. I = V/R = (-25x10^-3 / (3+1)) = -6.25x10^-3 A = -6.25x10^-3 C/s -6.25x10^-3 C/s * 4s = -25x10^-3 C -25x10^-3 C * (1e- / -1.6x10^-19 C/e-) = 1.5625 x 10^17 e- Otherwise -- we can make educated guess w/o calculation. (A) has an extremely small magnitude -- this would be essentially zero -- so left with C after elimination. Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Did not understand the away from / toward the cell. If the voltage change is negative, then electrons are moving away from the cell. Then just calculate to eliminate -- or use strategy. (STRATEGY! UNDERSTANDING! CALCULATION!)

If the average mass of an amino acid in a protein is 110 amu, then what is the most reasonable mass for the final protein product of the P gene? A. 330 amu B. 3,300 amu C. 33,000 amu D. 330,000 amu (Bio/Biochem, Question #26)

C. 33,000 amu P gene has 991 bases. Each codon requires three bases. 991/3 ~ 330 amino acids. Mass of the protein ~ 330 x 110 --> round to 330 x 100 = 33,000 amu Why missed? Miscalculation -- stupid mistake. (CALCULATION!)

Later analyses revealed that measures of family functioning generally increased with a mother's age. The trend continued until late adulthood, after which a gradual decline was observed. Which of the following statements best explains this observation? A. A mother's family functioning peaks at the same time as her fluid intelligence. B. Young adults are less likely to have achieved the "universal human ethics" stage of post-conventional morality which is strongly associated with parenting ability. C. A mother's crystallized intelligence is an important factor in family functioning. D. The transition to the post-conventional stage of reasoning in middle adulthood results in the mother developing a more rational approach to parenting. (Psych/Soc, Question #55)

C. A mother's crystallized intelligence is an important factor in family functioning. Correct answer must explain why family functioning peaks when the mother is in middle adulthood, and declines when she is either older or younger. (A) is INCORRECT -- flips the phenomenon of changing cognitive ability observed in adulthood. - Fluid intelligence peaks in early adulthood - Crystallized intelligence peaks in middle adulthood (B) and (D) are INCORRECT -- fail to recognize that if someone in late adulthood is more likely to have reached the postconventional stage of reasoning, then that stage will still have been achieved when that individual enters into later adulthood -- so the decline in family functioning mentioned in the question stem is NOT explained by Kohlberg's theory of moral reasoning. (C) is CORRECT -- identifies a possible explanation for this phenomenon (that crystallized intelligence peaks in middle adulthood)

Paclitaxel is most likely to hamper which phase of mitosis? A. Prophase B. Metaphase C. Anaphase D. Telophase (Bio/Biochem, Question #44)

C. Anaphase Passage tells us that paclitaxel stabilizes tubulin polymers once they form. Thus -- if they are stabilized -- becomes harder for them to shorten. When in mitosis do tubulin polymers shorten? Anaphase -- when chromosomes are pulled toward two poles of the cell. Why missed? Did not read the necessary part of the passage to guide the answer. Knew that it had something to do with tubulins, but did not find relevant part that said it stabilizes tubulins that have already formed. (READING! APPLICATION!)

Which of the following cellular mechanisms would be directly affected by a vitamin B12 deficiency? A. DNA replication only B. RNA synthesis only C. Both DNA replication and RNA synthesis D. Neither DNA replication nor RNA synthesis (Chem/Phys, Question #37)

C. Both DNA replication and RNA synthesis Both DNA and RNA synthesis require purines, thus both would be affected by a vitamin B12 deficiency. Why missed? Passage says "vitamin B12 is an important cofactor in the endogenous synthesis of purine nucleotides" -- knew that purine nucleotides are used in both RNA and DNA (Adenine and Guanine = purine nucleotides) -- but did not read this part for the question. (READING!)

Based on the ratings for the "Enjoyability of Tasks" question in Figure 1, which process were subjects most likely using to reduce cognitive dissonance? A. Lowering the importance of the discordant opinion B. Magnifying the importance of the consonant opinon C. Changing the discordant opinion to resolve dissonance D. Adding new opinions to make a consistent belief system (Psych/Soc, Question #49)

C. Changing the discordant opinion to resolve dissonance The $10 group subjects rated the tasks more enjoyable than the $200 group subjects. $200 group subjects rated tasks more enjoyable than the control group. This makes sense! The $10 and $200 group subjects were made to persuade confederates that the boring tasks were actually interesting. In order to reduce the resulting dissonance -- they would have had to convince themselves that the tasks were actually interesting -- they would have had to change the discordant opinion. Discordant opinion: the opinion that disagrees Consonant opinion: the opinion in which content and intent are in harmony. Why missed? Did not know the definitions of discordant and consonant opinions. (CONTENT!)

Which of the three methods to measure perception did Weber use in his experiment? A. Magnitude estimation B. Matching C. Discrimination D. Perception (Psych/Soc, Question #32)

C. Discrimination Weber used participants to determine the just noticeable difference (JND) JND = the smallest difference between two weights that could be detected by humans. Since his methodology was based on comparison between two quantities -- he used discrimination to measure perception. (A) is INCORRECT -- magnitude estimation in the context of weights is a method wehre participants are asked to guess how much a certain object weighs. No simultaneous comparisons are made in magnitude estimation, so this can NOT be correct. (B) is INCORRECT -- in a matching experiment with weights, subject would have the ability to adjust one of the two weights until they both felt like they weighed the same. This is not the case in Weber's experiment. (D) is INCORRECT -- perception is the quantity being measured -- the question asks about one of the METHODS to measure perception -- so this can NOT be correct. Why missed? Took the definition of "discrimination" out of context -- needed to apply this term to Weber's law. (APPLICATION!) Also -- did not think about this question in terms of Weber's law in general -- based it more on the specific passage. (UNDERSTANDING!)

Suppose a healthy individual experiences a surge in plasma calcium. Subsequently where would one expect to find the greatest amount of hydrolyzed PTH? A. Leaving the parathyroid glands B. Entering the liver C. Entering the nephrons D. Leaving the Haversian canals (Bio/Biochem, Question #11)

C. Entering the nephrons If plasma calcium in a healthy individual is above normal, the body will respond by excreting calcium and PTH by-products. Excretion occurs in the kidneys -- making nephron a good prediction -- and making (C) correct. (A) is INCORRECT -- parathyroid gland produces PTH, not the hydrolyzed products (B) is INCORRECT -- liver hydrolyzes PTH, so one would expect high levels leaving the liver, not entering it (D) is INCORRECT -- Haversian canals are found in the bones -- it is likely there will be some hydrolyzed products in systemic circulation, and therefore entering bones, but highest concentration will not be found here. Why missed? Did not know what Haversian canals were 00 so guessed on this in that they would probably be higher leaving something than entering it. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following statements is/are necessarily true? (Assume no inflation) I. If everyone's income increases and income distribution remains constants, absolute poverty will decline. II. If everyone's income increases and income distribution remains constant, relative poverty remains constant. III. The poverty line for absolute poverty is lower than the poverty line for relative poverty. A. I only B. II only C. I and II only D. II and III only (Psych/Soc, Question #47)

C. I and II only Absolute poverty: a level of poverty in which an individual is unable to afford minimal standards of food, shelter, clothing, and health-care. If everyone's income increased, and the cost of goods remained unchanged, absolute poverty would DECLINE since more people would be able to afford the basic necessities. Statement I is TRUE. Relative poverty: a level of poverty in which an individual earns less than a predetermined income threshold that is relative to others in the population being studied. For example -- a way to measure relative poverty is to declare that everyone who earns less than 60% of the village's median income is poor. In this case, if everyone's incomes increased, but the income distribution stayed the same, relative poverty would stay the same too. Statement II is TRUE. It is possible that someone can be absolutely poor, but still above the median income and therefore not relatively poor. For example -- if someone could not afford basic necessities, he is absolutely poor, but could be considered not relatively poor because he earns more than 60% of the village's median income. Statement III is NOT TRUE. Why missed? Did not form the correct relationships between absolute poverty and relative poverty. Did not take these terms and apply their definition to the context, and therefore selected the wrong answers by basing on strict definition only. (APPLICATION!)

Based on the passage, the author would most likely agree with which sociological perspective on health and illness? A. Social gradient in health B. Culture lag C. Life course approach to illness D. Law of similarity (Psych/Soc, Question #6)

C. Life course approach to illness Definitions of the terms in the answer choices: - Social gradient in health: refers to the fact that inequalities in population health statuses relate to inequalities in individual health status. - Culture lag: refers to the time it takes a culture to catch up with technological advancements. - Life course approach to illness: refers to a holistic perspective that calls attention to developmental processes and other experiences across a person's life -- is consistent with findings from both studies that earlier life exposures can influence later disease risk. - Law of similarity: refers to the phenomenon by which items that look similar are grouped together (i.e. a bunch of squares on top of each other could appear as a line). Of these -- only life course approach to illness is consistent w/ the implications the author associates w/ health literacy. Why missed? Did not know the definitions of the terms in the answer choices. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following, if true, most supports the data in Table 1 as being consistent with the social desirability motivation for thrill-seeking, as explained in the passage? A. Dangerous activities performed by a group of thrill-seekers generally involved both those with the DRD4 gene variant and those without. B. Members of the non-DRD4 group in mixed social environments regularly attempted to get all attendees to participate in the thrill-seeking activity. C. Members of the DRD4 group regularly relay stories and share photos of their behavior to demonstrate their identity as a thrill seeker to non-thrill-seekers. D. Members of the non-DRD4 group rarely canceled thrill seeking activities if non-thrill-seeking acquaintances were unable to attend. (Psych/Soc, Question #37)

C. Members of the DRD4 group regularly relay stories and share photos of their behavior to demonstrate their identity as a thrill seeker to non-thrill-seekers. Primary challenge the data makes to the social desirability theory (in P1) is that thrill-seeking behaviors of higher ranks, especially in the DRD4 group, are increasingly performed alone -- or at least outside the company of non-thrill-seekers. If thrill-seeking was truly a desire to impress others, then the presence of more company should always be preferred. We need an answer choice that resolves this conflict. (C) resolves this issue -- it suggests that the seemingly lonesome DRD4 group still values the social identity of being considered a thrill-seeker. (A) is INCORRECT -- does NOT address the main issue. Because the mix of DRD4 and non-DRD4 individuals is not the challenge made by the data. (B) is INCORRECT -- does not make much of an effect either -- there is no evidence that participation in the activity is necessary for others to admire the thrill-seekers. (D) is INCORRECT-- it would most nearly weaken the data -- is opposite. Why missed? Needed to rephrase and break down the question stem. Why is the data in Table 1 not consistent with the social desirability motivation for thrill-seeking (based on the passage)? From this rephrase -- we can look for something that resolves the inconsistency between the data and the social desirability motivation. (REPHRASING! UNDERSTANDING!)

Suppose an axon is at its resting potential and the command potential is set to 0mV. What would happen if the ground at point g was removed and the electrode originally at h was placed intracellularly, near point a? A. The measurement of Vm would be unaltered. B. Current would flow continuously from the axon to clamp amplifier. C. Minimal current would flow between the clamp amplifier and the axon. D. Voltage-gated channels on the axon membrane would be activated. (Chem/Phys, Question #54)

C. Minimal current would flow between the clamp amplifier and the axon. If the electrodes measuring the membrane potential were adjacent regions of the axon, then the measured potential difference would be zero. Since the command potential is also set to zero, the machine would do nothing. (A) is INCORRECT -- measured potential difference would change, since this is relative to the location of the electrodes. (B) is INCORRECT -- current will only flow when there is a difference between the command potential, and the measured membrane potential. (D) is INCORRECT -- while the new measured membrane potential will be zero (ostensibly above the threshold potential), this is because of an incorrect procedure for measuring the membrane potential (which should have one electrode inside and one outside) -- not an actual change in the membrane potential. Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) If I had answered this question -- would have been stuck. Needed to pick out from the question that the electrodes were adjusted -- instead of measuring the potential difference with one outside and one inside, now both are inside and will not be able to measuring potential difference -- needed to recognize this and match to the fact that nothing would happen. (REASONING! REPHRASING!)

From Day 80 onwards, the teacher went back to not responding to inappropriate talking and turning around in both experimental conditions. No further change in the number of instances of these target behaviors was observed. Are these results consistent with the theory of operant conditioning? A. Yes, because operant conditioning can result in shaping of target behaviors. B. Yes, because over the long-term, operant conditioning can lead to classical conditioning. C. No, because withdrawal of consequences causes extinction of the target behavior. D. No, because avoidance learning is permanent once established. (Psych/Soc, Question #15)

C. No, because withdrawal of consequences causes extinction of the target behavior According to operant conditioning -- when a previously reinforced behavior is no longer positively or negatively reinforced, it leads to a decline in that behavior -- called extinction. In the experiment in the passage, the teacher positively reinforced the absence of inappropriate talking and turning by praising the class. When this reinforcement was withheld, a resurgence in inappropriate talking and turning around would be expected. (A) is INCORRECT -- shaping involves increasingly more specific behaviors -- this does not match the situation. (B) is INCORRECT -- operant conditioning is said to occur when a spontaneous, voluntary target behavior occurs more or less frequently depending on the consequences of the behavior. Classical conditioning is said to occur when reflexive, involuntary behavior in response to a stimulus changes based on the stimulus conditions. Operant conditioning could not possibly be replaced with classical conditioning int his experiment. (D) is INCORRECT -- avoidance learning is NOT necessarily permanent. Why missed? Did not correctly apply knowledge of operant conditioning to this situation. Selected an answer choice that was true, but out of scope for the experiment in the passage. Needed to make a broad prediction instead of just going to the answer choices. (STRATEGY! APPLICATION!)

Which of the following questions would provide the most insight into the validity of the social environment metrics? A. What fraction of the fellow thrill-seekers had the DRD4 gene? B. What, exactly, is the definition of reckless driving? C. What was the expertise level of those attempting rock climbing without ropes? D. Are the activities in the higher-numbered ranks less appealing to non-participants? (Psych/Soc, Question #36)

D. Are the activities in the higher-numbered ranks less appealing to non-participants? In order to validate the different groups -- they need to be comparable across the measurements. (D) is a great match -- since the different crowd measurements would be affected if the activities were not appealing to the non-participants -- and that would limit the potential for a mixed crowd. (A) is INCORRECT -- would NOT affect validity of the experiment b/c the social environment is the same whether they are a thrill-seeker with or without the DRD4 gene. (B) is INCORRECT -- too specific! It is a potential issue with one example of rank 2, but it is NOT inferable that this would have any significant effect on the overall numbers. (C) is INCORRECT -- could slightly affect the danger level of rank 3, but it is unlikely to make its classification different. Why missed? Did not answer the question. Needed to rephrase -- what question would ask about something that affects the validity of the experimental measurements OVERALL? From here -- can eliminate questions that do not apply to the general measurements/group comparability. (REPHRASING! UNDERSTANDING!)

Which of the following does NOT derive from the neural crest? A. Adrenal medulla B. Schwann cells C. Melanocyte cells D. Erythrocyte cells (Bio/Biochem, Question #30)

D. Erythrocyte cells The neural crest is derived from the ectoderm -- knowing all structures from ectoderm allow us to rule out adrenal medulla, schwann cells, and melanocyte cells. Erythrocyte cells are derived from the mesoderm. Why missed? Did not remember which cells/structures come from ectoderm vs. mesoderm vs. endoderm. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following lists of values, obtained from bomb calorimetry, constitutes sufficient information to determine the bond energy of activated glucosamine? A. Mass of reactants, heat of formation of reactants, temperature of products B. Temperature of reactants, mass of calorimeter and specific heat of calorimeter C. Mass of water in calorimeter and specific heat of water D. None of the above is sufficient to determine the bond energy (Chem/Phys, Question #44)

D. None of the above is sufficient to determine the bond energy Bomb calorimetry is a very inefficient way to determine bond enthalpies within a compound when not starting from a standard state. In order to do so -- we need ALL information provided above, plus the heat of formation of the products, and background information on bond energies contained within either the reactants or products. So overall, we would need this information: - mass of reactants - mass of calorimeter - mass of water in calorimeter - heat of formation of reactants - heat of formation of products - temperature of products - temperature of reactants - specific heat of calorimeter - specific heat of water - background information on bond energies contained within either reactants or products Why missed? Did not know what was needed for measurements with a bomb calorimeter. Did not know specifics about bomb calorimeter. (CONTENT!)

Selenium is often an active component of treatments for scalp dermatitis. Selenium is a: A. metal B. Transitional metal C. Halogen D. Nonmetal (Chem/Phys, Question #45)

D. Nonmetal Selenium is on the right side of the periodic table (atomic # 34). It is too far right to be a metal (it is NOT a metal -- so can NOT be a transition metal or metal). It is not in column 7A (Group 17) -- so can NOT be a halogen. Selenium is a nonmetal. Why missed? Did not know the periodic table groups of elements well enough. (CONTENT!)

If the data were determined to be unreliable, which one of the following would be most likely to be the cause of the unreliability? A. Group assimilation B. Fundamental attribution error C. Hindsight bias D. Self-selection bias (Psych/Soc, Question #24)

D. Self-selection bias There are a few ways to negatively affect the data: - groups themselves could be in dispute - nutritionists' judgments could be inconsistent (D) accomplishes the first -- the groups themselves are in dispute. As people who self-identified as primary food purchasers may not be a perfect match with the group of people who are actually primary food purchasers, and this mismatch may have biased the results. For instance -- people in households full of unhealthy eaters may have all identified as non-primary purchasers (even though in reality, one member of each household must be the primary purchaser) -- this would unrealistically lower the health results of the non-primary purchasers' category. Why missed? Needed to rephrase -- what would cause the data to be unreliable? Data would be unreliable if (1) groups were in dispute/incorrectly assigned (2) if nutritionist judgments were not consistent. After rephrasing -- could find that (D) is the only answer that matches the prediction. (REPHRASING!) Selected (C) -- but this is irrelevant to the situation b/c there is not anyone to place dispositional attribution vs. situational attributions to. (APPLICATION!)

The method of carbon dating used to determine age depends upon the assumption that: A.The half-life of 14C changes when it is ingested. B. All ingested 14C is incorporated into the body. C. The half-life of 14C depends on the type of molecule in which it resides. D. The half-life of 14C does not depend upon conditions external to the 14C nucleus. (Chem/Phys, Question #16)

D. The half-life of 14C does not depend upon conditions external to the 14C nucleus. (D) is an assumption of carbon dating. It correctly states that the half-life of 14C does NOT depend upon conditions external to the 14C nucleus. This means that the half-life does NOT depend on the weather, the amount of 14C present, etc. Because the half-life is a constant with respect to conditions external to the nucleus, it can be used to measure elapsed time accurately. Since measuring time is the goal of carbon dating, choice (D) is a necessary assumption. Why missed? Did not reason through this question thoroughly. Selected (B) which is incorrect because all that matters is the ratio of 14C to 12C which will be constant as long as 12C and 14C are both incorporated into the body in some way. (STRATEGY!)

A researcher studying plasma membrane proteins uses a detergent to disrupt cellular membranes. Why might the researcher choose erythrocytes for this study? A. The erythrocytic plasma membrane is static in vivo B. Typical membrane proteins are not soluble in aqueous solution C. Membrane proteins are usually present at low levels in native environments D. The plasma membrane is only a fraction of a typical cell's membranes (Bio/Biochem, Question #58)

D. The plasma membrane is only a fraction of a typical cell's membranes Question asks us to explain WHY a researcher studying plasma membrane proteins might work with erythrocytes. Erythrocytes (red blood cells) lack organelles. Organelles have membranes and membrane proteins -- in order to study plasma membrane proteins and NOT organelle membrane proteins -- the researcher has chosen red blood cells. (D) is correct -- erythrocytes plasma membrane is much smaller than other cell membranes b/c it has no organelles Why missed? Chose (C) which is true, but DOES NOT ANSWER THE QUESTION! (STRATEGY! APPLICATION!)

Leptin acts to prevent hypothalamic secretions of neuropeptide Y, a potent feeding stimulant. As a result, the levels of neuropeptide Y are most probably: A. reduced in the Ob2 but not the Ob1 strain of mice. B. reduced in both the Ob2 and the Ob1 strains of mice C. elevated in the Ob2 but not in the Ob1 strain of mice D. elevated in both the Ob2 and Ob1 strains of mice (Bio/Biochem, Question #3)

D. elevated in both the Ob2 and Ob1 strains of mice In order for neuropeptide Y to be reduced, mice must produce functional leptin and be capable of responding to it. Since the Ob1 strain is defective in producing leptin -- it will have elevated levels of neuropeptide Y. Since the Ob2 strain is defective in responding to leptin -- it will have elevated levels of neuropeptide Y. Why missed? Chose an opposite answer choice -- needed to read more carefully to assess the relationships -- draw it out! (UNDERSTANDING! READING!)

If a person in the study were to meet someone to whom they gave three "no" votes and, for no other reason, holds a negative opinion of him or her, the person in the study is most clearly exhibiting behavior related to: A. in-group bias B. fundamental attribution error C. mate choice D. self-fulfilling prophecy (Psych/Soc, Question #18)

D. self-fulfilling prophecy The person making the judgement is doing so without reason, but because of prior expectation -- self-fulfilling prophecies based on bias work in this way (A) is INCORRECT -- can not be the definitive cause b/c it is unknown whether the two are in-group or out-group (B) is INCORRECT -- fundamental attribution error is a tendency to attribute another's behavior to disposition, and not to the situation -- this type of reasoning is absent from the given situation. (C) is INCORRECT -- out of scope. Why missed? Selected an answer choice that was not clearly supported from the passage or question stem. (MISSING PROOF!) Eliminated correct answer too quickly based on a strict definition -- needed to broaden the scope of the definition to apply it in context to the question. (APPLICATION! REASONING!)

As used in the context of the passage, the words "The rest is detail" refer to: (CARS, Question #36)

Definition in Context -- Foundations of Comprehension Why missed? Did not reason close enough that the answer could NOT be the author's opinion. The next can be eliminated because it is an OPPOSITE answer choice. (READING! STRATEGY! UNDERSTANDING!) Ran out of time. (TIMING!)

By inference from the passage, utilitarianism and contractarianism necessarily: (CARS, Question #15)

Inference - Reasoning WITHIN the Text Why missed? Chose an opposite answer choice -- misread/misinterpreted what author wrote. Needed to look at the theme of the passage more holistically to answer this question. (READING! UNDERSTANDING!)

Which of the following can most reasonably be inferred about the author's attitude toward the two classical liberal ideals of equality mentioned in the passage? (CARS, Question #10)

Inference -- Reasoning WITHIN the text Why missed? Needed to focus on author's opinion in the relevant paragraphs -- would have seen he agreed with Taylor's opinion, and Taylor's opinion said that the ideals were inadequate. (UNDERSTANDING! READING!)

Of the following actions, the author would be least likely to approve of: (CARS, Question #3)

LEAST likely -- author opinion -- Reasoning WITHIN the text Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Need to find relevant information from passage -- P2 states author's opinion on limiting actions -- here we find what does NOT fit into this. (READING! STRATEGY!)

The primary purpose of the passage is to: (CARS, Question #13)

Main Idea Why missed? Did not widen scope of answer to entire passage. In P1, author contrasts, but this is limited to P1. For the rest of the passage, author speaks to contractarianism and gives support for it. (UNDERSTANDING! REASONING!) Chose a "Faulty Use of Detail" answer choice.

Suppose that classical Mendelian genetics predicts that the probability of inheriting two alleles, which are 5 centiMorgans apart, is 25%. The actual frequency with which the two alleles are inherited together is expected to be: A. lower than 25% B. greater than 25% C. equal to 25% D. fluctuating around 25% (Bio/Biochem, Question #39)

Passage states that Mendelian genetics does NOT take into account linkage of alleles. In this question -- alleles that are 5 centiMorgans are certainly linked Since 5 centiMorgans means that the alleles are rarely recombined -- they are so close together, one rarely moves from one chromosome to another without the other allele Therefore -- linked chromosomes are more likely to be inherited together than originally predicted by Mendelian genetics -- so probability should be greater than 25% Why missed? Did not catch the part about Mendelian genetics. Needed that portion from the passage to guide the answer. (READING! MISSING PROOF!)

Suppose a venture capitalist is attempting to convince the members of his investment board to invest in a new business. In addition to making the case for the business, he also preemptively raises and responds to a few objections to his proposal. If the board members react unfavorably, the most reasonable explanation given the information presented in the passage would be that: (CARS, Question #24)

Reasoning BEYOND the Text Why missed? Chose an OPPOSITE answer choice. Applied the information incorrectly. (APPLICATION! READING!)

Which of the following explanations not presented in the passage might be an alternate explanation for the map experiments described by the author? (CARS, Question #49)

Reasoning BEYOND the Text Why missed? Needed an alternative explanation (something DIFFERENT than described in passage, but still leads to same outcome). Selected an answer choice too similar to the original explanation from the passage. (READING! UNDERSTANDING! REPHRASING!)

If it were the case that subjects simply responded as the experimenters encouraged them to do, based on the information in the passage, one would expect that: (CARS, Question #51)

Reasoning BEYOND the Text Why missed? Selected an answer choice that might be true -- but need an answer choice that MUST be true. (NEED PROOF!)

Based on the passage, one can reasonably expect the author to argue that the Transnistrians want to realign with Russia, and not to reunite with Romania, because: I. they fear the political instability and unpredictability of democratic political systems II. they consider the Nistru River the correct and natural Moldovan boundary III. they would be a small and powerless minority if Moldova unifies with Romania (CARS, Question #42)

Roman numeral question -- Detail Why missed? Did not find specific proof from the passage to support the answer choice. (NEED PROOF! UNDERSTANDING!)

The author's two references to the "distinct society" of Quebec are primarily intended to offer an example: I. of a multiculturalist demand II. for which Taylor's analysis is inadequate III. of a group for which special treatment is sought (CARS, Question #9)

Roman numeral question -- Reasoning WITHIN the text Why missed? Only looked in P5 for the answer -- but information relevant to answer found in P3, too. If I had found P3 information, would have seen that III is true, along with II, and had to pick right answer. (READING! FINDING INFORMATION!)

The author holds that one should not necessarily defer to the traditions and customs of other people. The author supports his position by arguing that: I. traditions and customs are usually the result of misinterpreted experiences. II. customs are based on experiences in the past, which fundamentally differ from modern experiences. III. customs can stifle one's individual development. (CARS, Question #6)

Roman numeral question -- author opinion -- detail Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Find relevant passage and work through elimination w/ roman numeral strategy. Only III is true and is implied in the passage. The other answer choices are either too extreme or incorrect. (STRATEGY! READING!)

Which of the following, if true, would most challenge the author's assertion that "the compassion craze has swept up biography"? (CARS, Question #40)

Strengthen/Weaken -- Reasoning BEYOND the Text Why missed? Needed to find a more specifically contradictory statement -- the answer chose I chose did not directly challenge the assertion. (UNDERSTANDING! APPLICATION! NEED PROOF!)

Which of the following, if true, would most WEAKEN the author's claims about the goals of the Transnistrians? (CARS, Question #43)

Strengthen/Weaken -- Reasoning WITHIN the Text Chose an irrelevant answer choice. Needed to rephrase this question stem -- what were the goals of the Transnistrians? Then select an answer choice that contradicts or is not those goals. (REPHRASING! UNDERSTANDING!)

The author claims in paragraph 5 that Nicholas at least failed to alleviate, and at most exacerbated, the causes of the collapse of czarism in 1917. The support offered for this conclusion is relatively: (CARS, Question #38)

Support in Context -- Foundations of Comprehnsion -- Detail Why missed? Got the first portion "strong vs. weak" correct, but the explanation after was incorrect. Mistook the strength of the explanation -- needed to choose something applicable to the argument/conclusion as a whole, not just a piece of it. (REASONING! UNDERSTANDING!)