Question

Fill in the blank with a suitable option:
Over the course of the passage, the focus shifts from _______________.

• A. a criticism of a scientific model to a new theory
• B. a description of a recorded event to its likely cause
• C. the use of ice core samples to a new method of measuring sulfates
• D. the use of radiocarbon dating to an examination of volcanic glass

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

a description of a recorded event to its likely cause

In the passage, there is a gradual shift from a description of a recorded event to its likely cause. The author begins the passage by explaining how the Little Ice Age was a “centuries-long cold snap" that was likely caused by a volcanic eruption. The author then goes on to explain how scientists used radiocarbon analysis to determine when the Little Ice Age began and how a volcanic eruption triggered the cooling temperatures. So, option B is the answer. The other options do not fit the context.