College Math Placement Practice Test

Based on the information given, what conclusion can be drawn about plant growth and sunlight exposure?

1. Plants do not grow unless they have at least 5 hours of sunlight.

2. Longer exposure to sunlight tends to result in more rapid growth.

3. More than 5 hours of sunlight is bad for plants.

4. Plants cannot survive with less than 5 hours of sunlight.

The correct answer is: Longer exposure to sunlight tends to result in more rapid growth.

The conclusion that longer exposure to sunlight tends to result in more rapid growth is supported by the understanding of photosynthesis and plant biology. Sunlight is a crucial factor for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. The more light a plant absorbs, within its tolerance limits, the more energy it can harness for growth and development. Longer sunlight exposure typically allows plants to produce more food energy, which they use for various processes such as growth, reproduction, and repair. However, there is a balance; while more sunlight generally enhances growth, excessive light exposure can lead to stress or damage in some species, which is probably why other options suggested that more than a certain number of hours might be harmful. The chosen answer reflects a consistent pattern observed in plant growth studies, illustrating the positive relationship between sunlight duration and plant health, while the other options suggest limits or conditions that don't align with broader ecological understanding.