4

Set 4: Central Ideas

Explanation

Answer: C

PASSAGE

The following text describes the effects of physical exercise on the brain. While the physical benefits of exercise are well known, recent research emphasizes its mental benefits. Regular aerobic exercise has been shown to increase the size of the hippocampus, the brain area involved in verbal memory and learning. This suggests that breaking a sweat is not just good for the heart, but also vital for maintaining brain health as we age.

According to the text, how does exercise benefit the brain?

A. It eliminates the need for sleep
B. It can increase the size of the hippocampus
C. It causes the brain to shrink slightly✓ Correct
D. It reduces the ability to learn new words

Detailed Explanation

Choice B is correct. The text explicitly states that exercise 'has been shown to increase the size of the hippocampus.'

Key Evidence:

• "increase the size of the hippocampus"

• "vital for maintaining brain health"

Why others are wrong: A (Not mentioned), C (Opposite (increases size)), D (Opposite (hippocampus is for memory and learning)).

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