Question

It can reasonably be inferred from the passage and the graphic

that if scientists adjusted the coils to reverse the magnetic field
simulating that in the East Atlantic (Cape Verda Islands), the
hatchlings would most likely swin in which direction?
A) Northwest
B) Northeast
C) Southeast
D) Southwest

Answer 1

To determine the likely direction in which the hatchlings would swim if scientists adjusted the coils to reverse the magnetic field simulating that in the East Atlantic (Cape Verde Islands), we can consider the information provided in the passage.

The passage mentions that hatchlings from French Guiana are exposed to magnetic conditions resembling those of the East Atlantic (Cape Verde Islands) in the hatchling rearing area. This exposure causes them to swim in a particular direction, as shown in the graphic. If the scientists were to reverse the magnetic field to simulate the conditions of the East Atlantic, it's reasonable to infer that the hatchlings' behavior would also reverse.

In the graphic, it appears that the hatchlings swim in a direction that is roughly southwest. Therefore, if the magnetic conditions were reversed to simulate those of the East Atlantic, the hatchlings would most likely swim in the opposite direction, which would be roughly northeast.

So, the answer is:

B) Northeast