SAT Reading and Writing Quiz

Dog Breeds and Behavior

• Modern dog breeds resulted from 160 years of crossbreeding for specific physical traits.
• Personality traits, such as those of basset hounds and boxers, are often attributed to breed but may not be universally applicable.
• Research by Kathleen Morrill and colleagues surveyed 2,000 dogs using both owner surveys and DNA sequencing.
• Findings indicate that while physical traits are heritable, behavior varies significantly within the same breed.

Mars Crust Composition

• Scientists initially assumed Mars's crust history was straightforward based on basalt composition.
• Geologic and climate data suggested the crust formed from a volcanic magma ocean.
• Valerie Payré's study utilized new analyses highlighting high silica concentrations in certain Martian areas.
• The presence of silica suggests alternative geological processes may explain the crust's formation.

Role of Algae in Coral Health

• Algae within coral tissues are essential for healthy coral and marine ecosystems.
• Healthy corals often appear brown due to algae; stress causes algae to die or be expelled, leading to coral bleaching and a white appearance.
• Bleached corals can produce bright colors to block sunlight, facilitating the recolonization of algae.
• Brightly colored corals likely indicate a history of stress and a subsequent recovery process.

Nazca Lines and Geoglyphs

• Geoglyphs are vast designs etched into landscapes, with the Nazca Lines in Peru as a prominent example.
• Indigenous civilizations created the Nazca Lines over many centuries.
• Peruvian archaeologist Johny Isla studied these geoglyphs and encountered historical photographs during a German exhibit.
• The presence of various geoglyph forms, including shapes resembling whales, highlights cultural significance and historical context.

This quiz focuses on the SAT Reading and Writing section, particularly on identifying central ideas and supporting details in text. Prepare to enhance your skills in interpreting and analyzing modern dog breeds as examples of crossbreeding and selection. Great for SAT test preparation!