While researching a report on renewable energy, a student has taken the following notes:
• Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity • Solar energy production is weather-dependent and varies by season • Wind turbines generate power through rotating blades • Wind power is most effective in coastal and elevated areas • Both technologies have seen significant cost reductions since 2010
The student wants to compare the environmental dependencies of solar and wind power. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
Since 2010, both solar panels and wind turbines have become significantly more affordable as renewable energy technologies.
While solar energy production depends on weather and seasonal factors, wind power is most effective in specific geographical locations like coastal and elevated areas.
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, and wind turbines use rotating blades to generate power.
Renewable energy technologies like solar and wind have different methods of converting natural resources into electricity.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The goal is to compare environmental dependencies.
- Context clues: The goal asks to "compare environmental dependencies."
- Meaning: Solar is weather/season dependent; wind depends on geography (coastal/elevated).
- Verify: Choice B directly contrasts these environmental factors.
💡 Strategy: When asked to compare, ensure both items are discussed and their relationship (similarities or differences) is clear.
Choice A is incorrect because it discusses cost, not environmental dependencies. Choice C is incorrect because it describes how they work, not environmental dependencies. Choice D is incorrect because it's too vague and doesn't specify the dependencies.