16Hit1600
Information and IdeasHardInference about why a result was unexpected

Information and Ideas practice question

The economists expected the new toll on the city's main bridge to shift traffic onto the two free bridges upstream. Instead, traffic across all three bridges fell by roughly the same proportion, and ridership on the trains that cross the river rose. This pattern suggests that ____

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  1. A. many drivers responded to the toll by switching to the train rather than by seeking an untolled road.Correct
  2. B. the free bridges were closed at the same time.
  3. C. the toll had no effect on drivers' behaviour.
  4. D. train fares were raised when the toll began.

Answer: A. many drivers responded to the toll by switching to the train rather than by seeking an untolled road.

Fewer cars everywhere, more train riders.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. the free bridges were closed at the same time.
Not stated, and traffic on them merely fell in proportion.
C. the toll had no effect on drivers' behaviour.
Traffic changed markedly.
D. train fares were raised when the toll began.
Higher fares would not raise ridership.

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