Question

    Read the passage below and answer the question that

    follows: Many cities are replacing conventional streetlights with smart LED lighting systems to reduce electricity consumption and maintenance costs. These smart lights use sensors to adjust brightness based on the presence of vehicles or pedestrians. However, critics argue that the transition might not significantly reduce energy consumption if the lights remain on throughout the night in areas with consistent traffic. Which of the following statements, if true, would strengthen or weaken the argument in the passage? A. Several studies show that smart lighting systems have reduced electricity bills in cities by nearly 40%. (Weaken) B. In some cities, streetlights are dimmed or turned off entirely during low-traffic hours without affecting safety. (Weaken) C. Areas with constant vehicle or pedestrian movement tend to have lights on almost all night, minimizing energy savings. (Strengthen) Select the correct combination:
    A Only C strengthens the argument Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B A and B weaken the argument; C strengthens it Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C Only A weakens the argument Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D A and C strengthen the argument; B weakens it Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E All three statements weaken the argument Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The main argument:
    Critics claim smart LED lighting may not lead to significant energy savings if lights remain on throughout the night in areas with constant activity. A. Smart lights reduce electricity bills by 40%.
    This weakens the argument by showing that smart lights are effective in cutting costs, even if critics argue otherwise. B. Lights are dimmed or turned off during low-traffic hours without affecting safety.
    This also weakens the argument. It suggests adaptive lighting works, countering the concern about lights staying on unnecessarily. C. Lights remain on almost all night in high-traffic areas.
    This strengthens the argument. It supports the criticism that energy savings may not be substantial in practice.

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