The world-wide disappearance of frogs may be the result of agricultural runoff. Scientists have shown that runoff rich in fertilizer causes a pronounced increase in the algae of lakes and ponds. Snails then gorge themselves on the algae, causing parasites living inside them to produce huge quantities of eggs. When the eggs hatch, the parasites infect young frogs, causing severe deformation of their limbs.
A) Nonargument.
B) Argument; conclusion: Snails then gorge themselves ... huge quantities of eggs.
C) Argument; conclusion: The world-wide disappearance ... agricultural runoff.
D) Argument; conclusion: When the eggs hatch ... severe deformation of their limbs.
E) Argument; conclusion: Scientists have shown ... in the algae of lakes and ponds.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This is an argument as it presents a conclusion supported by evidence. The conclusion is that the world-wide disappearance of frogs may be the result of agricultural runoff. The evidence presented is that runoff rich in fertilizer causes an increase in algae, which in turn leads to the proliferation of parasites that infect young frogs and cause severe limb deformation.

The World-Wide Disappearance of Frogs May Be the Result of Agricultural