PrepTest 73, Passage 1, Question 3

Lesson by Carl Pyrdum

Magoosh Expert

Summary

The analysis of a GRE question reveals the importance of closely reading the text to identify the correct answer to a Detail question, focusing on the author's assertions about mutations of genetic material.

Detail questions require an explicit statement in the passage, with only minor rephrasing allowed.
Answer choice A is incorrect because it confuses non-adaptive mutations with those not passed on to subsequent generations.
Answer choice B is incorrect as it inaccurately connects mutations with periods of mass extinctions.
Answer choice C is dismissed due to irrelevant comparisons between species behavior and appearance.
Answer choice D is correct, stating that the majority of mutations have no effect on reproductive success.
Answer choice E is incorrect, wrongly associating mutations with the size of species.