Refer to the Following Information to Answer the Next Few

question 74

Multiple Choice

Refer to the following information to answer the next few questions.
Researchers decided to test the hypothesis that if the 2-m tall Polytrichum gametophyte-sporophyte plants had acted as a physical buffer, then they would have reduced water's ability to erode the soil and carry away its nitrogen. They began with four equal-sized areas where Polytrichum mosses grew to a height of 2 m above the soil surface. One of the four areas was not modified. In the second area, the mosses were trimmed to a height of 1 m above the soil surface. In the third area, the mosses were trimmed to a height of 0.5 m above the soil surface. In the fourth area, the mosses were trimmed all the way to the ground, leaving only the rhizoids. Water, simulating rainfall, was then added in a controlled fashion to all plots over the course of one year. Figure 29.2 presents four graphs that depict potential results of this experiment.

Figure 29.2
-Which graph of soil nitrogen loss over time in Figure 29.2 most strongly supports the hypothesis that if the 2-m tall Polytrichum gametophyte-sporophyte plants had acted as a physical buffer, then they would have reduced water's ability to erode the soil and carry away its nitrogen?

• A) A
• B) B
• C) C
• D) D

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Definitions:

Face Validity

The extent to which a test or procedure appears effective in terms of its stated aims, at face value, to untrained individuals.

Standardized Assessments

Tools or tests that are uniformly administered and scored across different individuals or groups to measure specific factors such as abilities, aptitudes, or characteristics.

Normative Group

A reference group against which individuals or other groups' behaviors, attitudes, or conditions are compared and assessed.

Diagnosis

The identification of the nature and cause of a health problem, usually through evaluation of patient history, examination, and review of diagnostic tests.