203. Journalist: In physics journals, the number of articles reporting the results of experiments involving particle accelerators was lower last year than it had been in previous years. Several of the particle accelerators at major research institutions were out of service the year before last for repairs, so it is likely that the low number of articles was due to the decline in availability of particle accelerators.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the journalist’s argument?
(A) Every article based on experiments with particle accelerators that was submitted for publication last year actually was published.
(B) The average time scientists must wait for access to a particle accelerator has declined over the last several years. (C) The number of physics journals was the same last year as in previous years.
(D) Particle accelerators can be used for more than one group of experiments in any given year. (E) Recent changes in the editorial policies of several physics journals have decreased the likelihood that articles concerning particle-accelerator research will be accepted for publication.
choice A is incorrect because it implies that there was indeed a decline in the number of articles submitted and so supports the journalist's explanation.
choice B is incorrect since the fact that scientists have to wait for access implies that the accelerators continue to be fully used, thereby lending support to the idea that it is the reduced number of accelerators that led to a reduced number of articles. since a decline in the number of physics journals would be one alternative explanation for the decline in the number of articles published, and choices c rules out that alternative explanation, it somewhat supports the explanation the journalist offers.
Choice D does not weaken the journalist's argument: even if accelerators can be used for several experiments, a reduction in the number of accelerators is likely to lead to a reduction in the number of experiments, and hence of articles.
能不能帮助把文章的大意讲一下,而且我对ETS的解释也很不理解,尤其是对A 和B 的解释,请高手指点.谢谢 |