Question

algae is an informal term for a large, diverse group of photosynthetic organisms. algae play an important role in aquatic ecosystems. they serve as food for many fish and provide shelter for various animals. but now scientists are putting these organisms to work for new duties: cleaning up municipal sewage waste while simultaneously producing biofuel. algae gobbles up ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates, all commonly found in sewage from a treatment plant. it stores that energy, and then the algae can be converted into clean biodiesel. additionally, algae - based plastics are being manufactured as a sustainable, biodegradable alternative to petroleum - based plastic. what conclusion can be made about scientists interest in algae based on the information in this passage? 1. more research is needed about the effects of removing ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates from wastewater. 2. research on the production of biodiesel from algae will continue because there appear to be multiple benefits in using algae. 3. using algae for sewage treatment and biofuel may deplete the algae and endanger its primary function of providing food for fish

Explanation:

To solve this question, we analyze each option based on the passage:

1. Option 1: The passage states that algae “gobbles up ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates” from sewage, but it does not suggest that more research is needed about the effects of removing these substances. The passage focuses on new uses for algae, not gaps in research about its wastewater treatment effects. Eliminate Option 1.

1. Option 2: The passage describes multiple benefits of algae: cleaning sewage, producing biofuel, and being used for biodegradable plastics. Since these benefits are highlighted, it is reasonable to conclude that research on biodiesel production from algae will continue (as part of exploring these benefits). This aligns with the passage’s emphasis on algae’s new, valuable applications.

1. Option 3: The passage says algae “serve as food for many fish and provide shelter for various animals” but does not claim that using algae for sewage treatment and biofuel will deplete algae or endanger its role as food/shelter. There is no evidence in the passage to support this conclusion. Eliminate Option 3.

Answer:

1. Research on the production of biodiesel from algae will continue because there appear to be multiple benefits in using algae.