Climate scientist Dr. Sarah Kim asserts that coral reef bleaching events have become more frequent due to rising ocean temperatures. Her team has been monitoring reef health across the Pacific for fifteen years.
Which data would most effectively support Kim's assertion?
Coral species diversity remained stable at monitored sites over the study period
Local fishing practices have changed significantly in the past decade
Bleaching events occurred every 25 years on average before 1980 but now occur every 6 years
Tourists visiting coral reefs have increased by 40% since 2010
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. This provides historical comparison showing bleaching frequency increased from every 25 years to every 6 years—directly proving "more frequent."
- Context clues: The claim is about events becoming "more frequent."
- Evidence evaluation: Historical frequency comparison measures the claimed change.
- Verify: 25-year to 6-year shift = 4x more frequent.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Claims about change over time require before/after data.
Choice A is incorrect because stable diversity doesn't address bleaching frequency. Choice B is incorrect because fishing practices don't relate to temperature-caused bleaching. Choice D is incorrect because tourist numbers don't measure bleaching events.