Journalist: In physics journals, the number of articles reporting the

Journalist: In physics journals, the number of articles reporting the results of experiments involving particle
accelerators was lower last year than it had been in previous years. Several of the particle accelerators at major
research institutions were out of service the year before last for repairs, so it is likely that the low number of
articles was due to the decline in availability of particle accelerators.
Which of the following, if true, most seriously undermines the journalist’s argument?
(A) Every article based on experiments with particle accelerators that was submitted for publication last year
actually was published.
(B) The average time scientists must wait for access to a particle accelerator has declined over the last
several years.
(C) The number of physics journals was the same last year as in previous years.
(D) Particle accelerators can be used for more than one group of experiments in any given year.
(E) Recent changes in the editorial policies of several physics journals have decreased the likelihood that
articles concerning particle-accelerator research will be accepted for publication.



This is a simple one and you should destroy these questions in less than 1 min and 30 secs.. Here,s how to do it.
By looking at the conclusion and the stem, it is evident that the question is CAUSE AND AFFECT reasoning + WEAKEN question.

So by mapping the conlusion we see that :
PED (decline in availability of particle accelerators) {CAUSE} ---------->>>> LNOA (low number of
articles) {EFFECT}

In these types of questions, following options are to be considered:
A. Find an alternate cause for the stated effect
B. Show that even when the cause occurs, the effect does not occur
C. Show that although the effect occurs, the cause did not occur
D. Show that the stated relationship is in fact reversed
E. Show a statistical problem exists with the data used to make the causal
statement

Mostly answer will be from the first 2 or the last option (which is tricky).
Coming back to the question, find any alternate cause for the stated effect in AC,s. E best explains an alternate cause.

(E) Recent changes in the editorial policies of several physics journals have decreased the likelihood that
articles concerning particle-accelerator research will be accepted for publication.

So, it was not due to the fact that we had less particle accelerators but because of change in
the policy that the number of artiles were decreased. Statement E clearly explain the alternate cause for the stated effect.

HENCE E. Hope it helps.

Any suggestions are welcomed.
-V