Dr. Yuki Tanaka's research team analyzed soil samples from 2,000-year-old agricultural sites in Peru. They found that ancient Andean farmers had developed sophisticated techniques for preserving soil nutrients across generations—techniques that some modern agricultural scientists are now studying to address contemporary soil degradation challenges.
It can be inferred from the text that
modern agriculture has caused irreversible damage to soil worldwide
Dr. Tanaka's team invented new soil preservation techniques
ancient farming methods may offer solutions to current environmental problems
Peruvian farmers today use the same methods as their ancestors
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The passage shows modern scientists looking to ancient methods for solutions.
- Context clues: Modern scientists are "studying" ancient techniques to "address contemporary soil degradation challenges."
- Meaning: If scientists look to the past for answers, those methods must have potential value.
- Verify: The connection between ancient techniques and modern problems suggests historical solutions may help.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Look for what actions in the passage imply about the subject's value or significance.
Choice A is incorrect because the passage doesn't suggest damage is irreversible. Choice B is incorrect because the team is studying ancient techniques, not inventing new ones. Choice D is incorrect because the text doesn't discuss current Peruvian farming practices.