Question

A short informational text explains challenges faced by oil companies operating in remote environments.

As energy use increases around the world, oil companies are searching for new sources of fuel. Many of the easiest-to-reach oil reserves on land have already been used. To meet growing global demand, companies now drill deeper underground and farther offshore, even though these locations are more expensive and dangerous to access.

What is the main reason given for this change?

(3 points)

Oil is easier to find underwater

New laws require deeper drilling

Renewable energy has replaced oil

Global demand for oil continues to increase
A chart shows rising oil demand and increased drilling costs.



Which cause-and-effect relationship is best supported by the chart?

(3 points)

Increased demand leads to more difficult extraction

Governments control oil prices

Higher costs reduce oil demand

Technology lowers drilling risks
A table lists farming regions and the crops grown there.



What conclusion can be drawn about farming in cool temperate climates?

(3 points)

Farming is mostly subsistence-based

Agriculture is rare in these regions

Farming focuses on grains and dairy

Tropical crops grow best there
Short Reading: Deforestation and the Timber Industry in North America

In parts of North America such as the Pacific Northwest and the southeastern United States, forests have long supported large timber industries. When trees are cut faster than forests can naturally regrow, wildlife habitats are destroyed and forest ecosystems become less stable. Over time, this can lead to fewer mature trees available for harvesting, increased environmental damage, and stricter regulations on logging. As a result, timber companies may struggle to maintain production in the future.

How does cutting down too many trees affect the timber industry?

(3 points)

It improves long-term profits

It risks the future success of the industry

It lowers demand for wood

It increases forest growth
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Answer 1

1) Main reason for change:
- Global demand for oil continues to increase.
(Companies are drilling deeper/farther to meet growing demand.)

2) Cause-and-effect supported by the chart:
- Increased demand leads to more difficult extraction.
(Rising demand is shown alongside higher drilling costs—implying harder extraction.)

3) Conclusion about cool temperate farming:
- Farming focuses on grains and dairy.
(Cool temperate regions typically support grain crops and livestock/dairy.)

4) How overcutting trees affects the timber industry:
- It risks the future success of the industry.
(Removing trees faster than they regrow reduces future harvests and production.)