It Is Perhaps Not Surprising that Debate has Arisen Over Bioluminescence-Based Biotechnologies

Reading Passage Question

It is perhaps not surprising that debate has arisen over bioluminescence-based biotechnologies because although they may lead to remarkable products, the biological process in the creatures that serve as models for biomimetic products are themselves not entirely understood. To take a single example, green fluorescent protein (GFP) extracted from certain species of jellyfish-Aequorea victoria, to be specific-and placed on a silicon dioxide substrate between two electrodes will organize itself into strands that absorb the photons from ultraviolet light and emit a detectable electric current. Researchers see great promise in this technology. For example, GFP strands could become a minute biophotovoltaic power pack from which could be created more cost-effective solar cells.

Despite the excitement over this promising research, questions about sustainability and method persist. The Aequorea victoria which exists in colonies in Puget Sound and from which GFP is derived-has been found in declining numbers over the last two decades. However, whereas the jellyfish were abundantly available for collection two decades ago, their numbers have now decreased. This decrease is not clearly related to collection, but it cannot be ruled out as a factor, as some research suggests that ocean conditions are generally favorable toward jellyfish overpopulation. Research into the application of GFP often yields inconsistent results because the jellyfish's bioluminescent activity is still not completely understood. The glowing effect, which appears only on a specimen's margins, is not continuous, and what provokes it is not known. Researchers in lab conditions can easily cause the bioluminescent reaction to occur, but when undisturbed, specimens rarely glow.

“It is perhaps not surprising that debate has arisen over bioluminescence-based biotechnologies” - is a GMAT reading comprehension passage with answers. Candidates need a strong knowledge of English GMAT reading comprehension.

This GMAT Reading Comprehension consists of 3 comprehension questions. The GMAT Reading Comprehension questions are designed for the purpose of testing candidates’ abilities. They are checked on understanding, analyzing, and applying information or concepts. Candidates can actively prepare with the help of GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Questions.

Solution and Explanation

1. The author's primary purpose in this passage is to

1. discuss potential benefits of bioluminescence-based biotechnology and potential problems with its research.
2. discourage further research into Aequorea victoria's bioluminescent capabilities.
3. celebrate the promised benefits of biophotovoltaic production.
4. raise questions that need to be answered before research in bioluminescence-based biotechnologies can be sustainable or effective.
5. describe the beauty of the glow of bioluminescent jellyfish.

2. The passage's discussion of biophotovoltaic power provides support for which of the following assertions?

1. The natural world is too fragile to endure the development of this technology.
2. The development of better solar cells is vital to renewable energy research.
3. The use of biophotovoltaic power may cause declining jellyfish populations in Puget Sound.
4. A biological process might yield technological benefits even before it is fully understood.
5. Bioluminescence-based biotechnology will revolutionize the energy industry.

3. The first paragraph performs which of the following functions in the passage?

1. It lists problems associated with research into bioluminescent jellyfish in Puget Sound.
2. It gives an example of a controversial area of research and the benefits it may yield.
3. It investigates the practicality of a potentially beneficial area of research and gives examples of problems that must be solved.
4. It describes the technique used to cause extracted GFPs to emit electrical current.
5. It encourages increased corporate and academic support of research into bioenergies.

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