Set 7: Central Ideas
Explanation
PASSAGE
The following text discusses energy sources. Renewable energy is energy that is collected from renewable resources, which are naturally replenished on a human timescale, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat. Renewable energy often provides energy in four important areas: electricity generation, air and water heating/cooling, transportation, and rural (off-grid) energy services. Contrastingly, fossil fuels are finite resources that take millions of years to form.
What distinguishes renewable energy from fossil fuels according to the text?
Detailed Explanation
This question asks you to identify the main point of the passage. Choice D is the best answer. The text defines renewable resources as those that are 'naturally replenished on a human timescale,' and contrasts this with fossil fuels which are 'finite' and 'take millions of years to form.' This matches Choice D.
Choice B is incorrect because cost is not mentioned.
Choice A is incorrect because it attributes the renewable quality to fossil fuels.
Choice C is incorrect because pollution is not mentioned. Remember that supporting details help prove the central idea but are not the main point themselves. The author's central idea should be broad enough to encompass the entire passage while still being specific enough to be meaningful. Ask yourself what the author most wants you to understand.
Key Evidence:
• "naturally replenished on a human timescale"
• "fossil fuels are finite resources"
Why others are wrong: B (Unsupported - cost not mentioned), A (Contradicts text - fossil fuels are finite), C (Unsupported - pollution not mentioned).
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