LSAT Question Stem

Each of the following, if true, would help to resolve the apparent discrepancy between the predictions above EXCEPT: 

Logical Reasoning Question Type

This is a Paradox question. 

Correct Answer

The correct answer to this question is C. 

LSAT Question Complete Explanation

Let's first analyze the passage and the apparent discrepancy. The passage states that if cold fusion worked, it would provide almost limitless power from very inexpensive raw materials, which are cheaper than coal or oil. However, replacing all traditional electric generators with cold-fusion power plants would result in a reduction of no more than 25 percent in the average residential electric bill. The discrepancy lies in the fact that using cheaper raw materials should, in theory, lead to a more significant reduction in electric bills, but it doesn't.

The question type is Paradox, and we are asked to find the answer choice that does NOT help resolve this apparent discrepancy.

Now, let's analyze each answer choice:

a) Cold-fusion power plants would be more expensive to build and maintain than traditional electric generators are.

This answer choice helps resolve the discrepancy because if cold-fusion power plants are more expensive to build and maintain, then the overall cost savings from using cheaper raw materials would be offset by the higher costs of building and maintaining the power plants.

b) Environmental regulations now placed on burning coal or fuel oil are less costly than the regulations that would be placed on cold fusion.

This answer choice also helps resolve the discrepancy because if the environmental regulations for cold fusion are more expensive, then the costs associated with these regulations would offset the savings from using cheaper raw materials.

c) Most electric companies would be willing to incorporate cold-fusion technology into their power plants.

This answer choice does NOT help resolve the discrepancy because it doesn't address the reasons behind the limited reduction in electric bills. It simply states that electric companies would be willing to incorporate the technology, but it doesn't explain why the cost savings aren't more significant.

d) Only a relatively small portion of any residential electric bill is determined by the electric company's expenses for fuel.

This answer choice helps resolve the discrepancy because if only a small portion of the electric bill is determined by fuel expenses, then using cheaper raw materials would not have a significant impact on the overall cost of electric bills.

e) Personnel costs for the distribution of power to consumers are unrelated to the type of raw materials an electric company uses.

This answer choice helps resolve the discrepancy because if personnel costs are unrelated to the type of raw materials used, then even if the raw materials are cheaper, the personnel costs would not change, thus limiting the overall reduction in electric bills.

The correct answer is C, as it is the only answer choice that does NOT help resolve the apparent discrepancy between the predictions in the passage.