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Difficulty: EasyDetermining Author's Primary Purpose

Deep beneath the ocean's surface, where sunlight cannot penetrate, lies a world of perpetual darkness. To survive in this extreme environment, many marine organisms have evolved the ability to produce their own light, a phenomenon known as bioluminescence. This biological light serves several critical survival functions in the deep sea. Some species, like the anglerfish, use a glowing lure dangling near their mouths to attract unsuspecting prey. Others employ bioluminescence as a defense mechanism; certain species of squid release a cloud of glowing ink to blind and startle predators, allowing the squid to escape. Additionally, bioluminescence is used for communication and mating, as flashes of light help individuals locate potential mates in the vast, empty depths. While scientists continue to discover new species that exhibit this trait, it is clear that bioluminescence is not merely a decorative feature, but a fundamental adaptation that makes life possible in the deep ocean.

Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of the passage?

  1. A
    describe how the anglerfish uses a glowing lure to attract its prey
  2. explain how bioluminescence serves as a vital survival adaptation for deep-sea creaturesAnswer
  3. C
    argue that the deep ocean is the most diverse ecosystem on Earth
  4. D
    assert that scientists have recently completed their search for all bioluminescent species

Answer

explain how bioluminescence serves as a vital survival adaptation for deep-sea creatures
The correct answer is the option that describes bioluminescence as a vital survival adaptation. The passage introduces bioluminescence, defines it, and then presents multiple ways deep-sea organisms use it to survive, concluding that it is a fundamental adaptation for life in the deep ocean.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the main topic of the passage.
The passage is about bioluminescence in deep-sea environments.
Establishing the topic helps narrow down the primary focus.
2
Determine the author's message or argument about the topic.
The author explains that bioluminescence is a fundamental adaptation for survival, serving functions like attracting prey, defense, and mating.
Understanding the author's message reveals the purpose of writing the text.
3
Evaluate the choices to find the one that matches this global purpose rather than local details or unsupported claims.
The option explaining bioluminescence as a vital survival adaptation accurately captures the passage's main intent, whereas the other options focus on details, make overly broad claims, or distort the text.
This step distinguishes the primary purpose from common distractors.

Key Concept

Determining Author's Primary Purpose
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Determining Author's Primary Purpose

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