Conclusion: The cost of producing orange juice will be higher which in turn will push up the cost of orange juice
To weaken this conclusion, we have to negatively impact the conclusion.
Because of a recent drought in Florida during the orange-growing season, the
price of oranges this season will be three times the usual price. This will drive up
the cost of producing orange juice and thus push up the price of orange juice for
the consumer.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously weakens the argument above?
(A)
The recent drought was not as severe as scientists predicted.This is not related to the cost of producing orange juice.
(B)
States other than Florida also supply oranges to orange juice manufacturers.This seems to be the most probable answer. Assuming that states other than Florida didn't experience drought and the cost of oranges is the same elsewhere, the cost of producing orange juice would not be much impacted.
(C)
Other ingredients are used in the production of orange juice.The major ingredient of orange juice is orange. So, the cost of other ingredients is irrelevant.
(D)
Last year the price of oranges was actually lower than the average price over
the past ten years.: Though the cost of oranges was actually lower,the price will be thrice the price now. The new price cannot be assumed to be lower/higher from this choice.
(E)
The price of oranges will eventually be $0.48 per crate. : We cannot assume the cost of orange juice from this.