Question

monday
passage:
the amazon rainforest, often referred to as the lungs of the earth, plays a vital role in regulating the planets climate. covering over 5.5 million square kilometers, it is home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal species. the rainforest absorbs vast amounts of carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, and produces approximately 20% of the worlds oxygen. however, deforestation poses a significant threat to this critical ecosystem. trees are cut down for agriculture, logging, and urban development, leading to habitat loss and increased carbon emissions. conservation efforts are essential to protect the amazon and maintain its crucial functions for the environment.
which detail from the text best supports the claim that the amazon rainforest is crucial for the environment?
a) it covers over 5.5 million square kilometers.
b) it produces approximately 20% of the worlds oxygen.
c) it is home to various plant and animal species.
d) it is often referred to as the lungs of the earth.
what is the effect of using the phrase lungs of the earth in the context of the passage?
a) it highlights the importance of physical strength in nature.
b) it provides a metaphor that underscores the rainforests essential role in air quality.
c) it suggests that the rainforest is in competition with other ecosystems.
d) it implies that the rainforest is a brutal structure.

Explanation:

For the first question, the text emphasizes the Amazon rainforest's role in producing oxygen (a key environmental function). Option B directly relates to its crucial environmental contribution. For the second question, the metaphor "lungs of the Earth" is used to highlight the rainforest's essential role (like lungs for breathing - providing oxygen) in the ecosystem, which is what option B states.

Answer:

First question: B. It produces approximately 20% of the world's oxygen.
Second question: B. It provides a metaphor that underscores the rainforest's essential role in air quality.