Question

For each question, choose the BEST answer, then select the reason for your choice.

1. What is the primary message of Silent Spring?

A. The importance of scientific research

B. The dangers of unregulated chemical use

C. The role of government in environmental protection

D. The balance of nature

Why did you choose this answer?

A. Carson provides detailed research on pesticide effects.

B. Carson discusses how the government regulates pesticides.

C. Carson focuses on nature’s ability to recover from damage.

D. Carson argues that science alone cannot solve environmental issues.

2. Why was Silent Spring so controversial when it was published?

A. It challenged powerful industries.

B. It did not provide enough scientific evidence.

C. It was written as fiction instead of fact.

D. It promoted pesticides rather than banning them.

What was one major result of the book’s publication?

A. The banning of DDT

B. The increase of pesticide use

C. The creation of new pesticides

D. The decrease in environmental awareness


Answers

GPT-4o mini
1. What is the primary message of Silent Spring?

**B. The dangers of unregulated chemical use**

**Why did you choose this answer?**

**A. Carson provides detailed research on pesticide effects.**

This answer is the best choice because "Silent Spring" clearly outlines the harmful effects of pesticides on the environment and public health, particularly focusing on DDT. Carson emphasizes the need for regulation in the use of chemicals, which underscores the book's central theme of warning against the reckless use of pesticides without proper oversight.


2. Why was Silent Spring so controversial when it was published?

**A. It challenged powerful industries.**

**What was one major result of the book’s publication?**

**A. The banning of DDT**

The controversy stemmed from Carson's critique of the pesticide industry and her challenge to established practices in agriculture, which threatened the interests of powerful chemical companies. One major result of her work was the growing public awareness of environmental issues, leading to the eventual banning of DDT and other harmful pesticides.