Passage VI

Figure 1 shows the relative ground elevation at Sites A-D in an earthquake-prone area, measured over 30 yr. Relative ground elevation is the vertical distance above or below the nearest benchmark (location of known, fixed elevation). Figure 2 shows the resistivity (which is directly proportion to the resistance to the flow of electrical current) of the bedrock in the same area, measured over 8 months (mo) in 1996. Figure 3 shows the level of the radon (a radioactive gas) emissions from well water in the same area, measured over 8 yr. The time at which an earthquake occurred in the area is indicated in all 3 figures.

33. In the area studied, the site farthest from the epicenter had the smallest positive difference between maximum relative ground elevation and minimum relative ground elevation during the 30 yr period. Accordingly, based on Figure 1, which site was farthest from the epicenter?

Answer and Explanation

Your Answer is

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Note that the farthest site has the smallest positive difference in the question stem, see figure 1, the line segment of Site D is the gentlest, that is, the difference is the smallest