LSAT Explanation PT 43, S3, Q10: Recently, photons and neutrinos emitted by

LSAT Question Stem

Which one of the following, if true, would most strengthen the reasoning above? 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Strengthen question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is B. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

First, let's analyze the argument in the passage. The argument states that the simultaneous arrival of photons and neutrinos from a distant supernova supports Einstein's claim that gravity is a property of space itself, as it suggests that the space through which they traveled was curved. In simpler terms, the passage argues that because these particles arrived at the same time, it indicates that they traveled through a curved space, which supports Einstein's theory about gravity.

The structure of the argument can be broken down as follows:

- Premise: Photons and neutrinos from a distant supernova arrived at Earth simultaneously.

- Conclusion: This finding supports Einstein's claim that gravity is a property of space itself.

Now, let's come up with an "Evaluate" question about the argument: "Is there any other possible explanation for the simultaneous arrival of photons and neutrinos besides the curvature of space?"

The question type for this problem is Strengthen, which means we are looking for an answer choice that would most strengthen the reasoning in the passage.

Answer choice explanations:

a) Einstein predicting that photons and neutrinos emitted by any one supernova would reach Earth simultaneously adds credibility to his claim, but it doesn't necessarily strengthen the argument that gravity is a property of space itself. There could still be alternative explanations for the simultaneous arrival of these particles.

b) This answer choice directly strengthens the argument. It states that the only way in which photons and neutrinos emitted simultaneously by a distant event will reach Earth at the same time is if gravity is a property of space itself. Since the photons and neutrinos did arrive at virtually the same time, Einstein's claim (and the author's conclusion) must be correct. This is the correct answer choice.

c) If this answer choice were true, then the mere fact that observers could tell that photons and neutrinos had arrived at Earth would prove Einstein's claim incorrect. This answer choice actually weakens the reasoning above and should be dismissed.

d) Without knowing the predicted impact of Einstein's claim on subatomic particles besides photons and neutrinos, this answer choice cannot be used to evaluate the reasoning in the stimulus. It neither strengthens nor weakens the author's conclusion.

e) Lack of previous empirical evidence of Einstein's claim does not strengthen the argument above. Since there could be several explanations for the lack of evidence besides a flaw in Einstein's theory (such as technological limitations), this answer also does not suggest that the author's conclusion is wrong. Answer choice (E) neither strengthens nor weakens the conclusion.