SAT® Reading & Writing Practice Question: Command of Evidence
Learn How to Quickly and Accurately Analyze Comparative Claims for Higher SAT Scores
Today’s practice is a mock SAT® Command of Evidence Question. For proper time management on test day, you should aim to answer this question correctly in 30-45 seconds.
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Given that all mammals evolved from early egg-laying ancestors (such as the proto-mammals of the late Permian period), some biologists have theorized that modern mammals and their closest reptilian relatives (such as certain species of lizards and snakes) should share similar biochemical structures, with mammals having equal or lower concentrations of certain ancient proteins compared to reptiles. This theory is supported by evidence that several mammalian species contain some of the same protein structures found in their closest reptilian cousins.
Which finding, if true, would most directly weaken the biologists' claim?
A) Most reptiles are composed primarily of collagen and elastin proteins, but detailed analysis reveals they also contain trace amounts of myoglobin and hemoglobin.
B) A newly discovered reptile species is found to have protein structures nearly identical to those of crocodiles.
C) Research shows that the concentration of ancient keratin proteins in certain mammals is significantly higher than the concentration in their reptilian relatives.
D) The method for analyzing protein structures in mammals proves less reliable when applied to amphibians.
(Answer Explanations and Strategy Walk-Through Below.)
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