Text 1: Astronomer Dr. Lisa Chang believes that the search for extraterrestrial life should focus on exoplanets within the "habitable zone." "Planets at the right distance from their stars could have liquid water, which is essential for life as we know it," Chang writes. "This targeted approach maximizes our limited resources."
Text 2: Astrobiologist Dr. Marcus Webb argues for a broader search strategy. "Life might exist in forms we cannot imagine," Webb contends. "Europa's subsurface oceans and Titan's methane lakes suggest life could thrive in conditions we once thought impossible. Limiting our search to Earth-like conditions may cause us to miss something extraordinary."
Based on the texts, how would Webb (Text 2) most likely respond to Chang's research strategy in Text 1?
By agreeing that liquid water is necessary for all forms of life
By suggesting that the habitable zone approach is too narrow
By arguing that exoplanet research should be discontinued
By acknowledging that resource limitations justify a focused approach
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. Webb explicitly argues that "limiting our search to Earth-like conditions may cause us to miss something extraordinary," directly challenging Chang's focused habitable zone approach.
- Evidence: Webb cites Europa and Titan as examples of potential life in unexpected conditions.
- Reasoning: His emphasis on "forms we cannot imagine" suggests Earth-centric criteria are insufficient.
- Conclusion: Webb would argue Chang's approach is too restrictive.
Choice A is incorrect because Webb suggests life might not require liquid water. Choice C is incorrect because Webb supports expanding, not stopping, the search. Choice D is incorrect because Webb doesn't validate resource-based limitations.