To investigate the root cause of frequent delays on a metropolitan subway system, a transit authority task force led by Dr. Aris conducted a rigorous analysis. They utilized stochastic modeling and analyzed historical transit data during rush hours. The task force evaluated several variables, such as train velocity and passenger volume. Their findings ultimately contradicted the popular belief that overcrowding was to blame; instead, the analysis identified that the antiquated signaling hardware at convergence points was causing a ripple effect of stoppages throughout the network.
Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
To outline the statistical methods used by transit authorities to monitor subway speed.
To argue that the city must increase the budget for purchasing new subway trains.
To summarize the findings of a study that pinpointed faulty signaling equipment as the primary source of subway delays.
To compare the efficiency of stochastic modeling against other forms of data analysis.
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The text describes a specific problem (subway delays), the study conducted to understand it, and the specific conclusion reached: that "antiquated signaling hardware," not overcrowding, was the cause.
Choice A is incorrect because the methods (stochastic modeling) are mentioned only to establish the study's validity, not as the main topic of the text. Choice B is incorrect because the text identifies a problem with signaling hardware but does not explicitly make a budgetary argument or mention purchasing new trains. Choice D is incorrect because the text focuses on the results of one specific study, not on comparing different analytical methodologies.