Question

The consistency of ice cream is adversely affected by even slight temperature changes in the freezer. To counteract this problem, manufacturers add stabilizers to ice cream. Unfortunately, stabilizers, though inexpensive, adversely affect flavor. Stabilizers are less needed if storage temperatures are very low. However, since energy costs are constantly going up, those costs constitute a strong incentive in favor of relatively high storage temperatures. Which one of the following can be properly inferred from the passage? (A) Even slight deviations from the proper consistency for ice cream sharply impair its flavor. (B) Cost considerations favor sacrificing consistency over sacrificing flavor. (C) It would not be cost-effective to develop a new device to maintain the constancy of freezer temperatures. (D) Stabilizers function well only at very low freezer temperatures. (E) Very low, stable freezer temperatures allow for the best possible consistency and flavor of ice cream.

Short answer

Choice E can be properly inferred from the passage.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Problem

The problem involves balancing ice cream consistency, flavor, and cost. Stabilizers are added to maintain consistency but affect flavor. Low temperatures reduce the need for stabilizers but increase energy costs.

Analyze the Answer Choices

Each choice represents a potential inference from the passage. We must determine which inference logically follows from the given information.

Evaluate Choice A

Choice A suggests that slight deviations affect flavor. While the passage mentions consistency is affected by temperature, it does not explicitly link consistency deviations directly to flavor impairment.

Evaluate Choice B

Choice B implies that cost leads to sacrificing consistency over flavor. The passage mentions cost considerations for temperatures, but it does not directly state a preference for consistency over flavor this way.

Evaluate Choice C

Choice C posits that developing a new device would not be cost-effective. The passage does not discuss the development cost of such a device, so we cannot infer this.

Evaluate Choice D

Choice D suggests that stabilizers work well only at low temperatures. The passage indicates stabilizers are less needed not less effective at low temperatures, so this inference is incorrect.

Evaluate Choice E

Choice E suggests low, stable temperatures optimize consistency and flavor. The passage does imply stabilizers are less needed (which could improve flavor) if temperatures are low, supporting this inference.

Key concepts

Logical Reasoning

Logical reasoning involves examining information carefully and making connections between different pieces of data to reach a conclusion. In the LSAT, logical reasoning tests your ability to analyze arguments, identify assumptions, and evaluate the strength of evidence.
For example, in our exercise, we have to consider how ice cream consistency, flavor, and cost interact with each other. The passage tells us that stabilizers help maintain consistency but can negatively affect flavor, and that lower temperatures might reduce the need for stabilizers, thus preserving the flavor.
When solving logical reasoning problems:

• Identify the main argument and supporting premises.
• Understand how these elements relate to each other.
• Draw logical inferences from the statements provided.

The goal is to determine what conclusions can be logically supported by the given information, even if not directly stated.

Inference Questions

Inference questions require you to deduce conclusions based on the information provided. They don't ask for what is explicitly stated, but for what must be true if the given information is accurate.
In the ice cream example, we need to infer what is logically supported. Choice E, "Very low, stable freezer temperatures allow for the best possible consistency and flavor of ice cream," aligns with the inference needed. Lower temperatures mean fewer stabilizers, which could enhance flavor and maintain consistency.
To tackle inference questions:

• Look for key facts within the passage.
• Consider the implications these facts might have.
• Don't assume anything beyond what's given.

Inference requires careful reading and an understanding of cause and effect in the context provided.

Analytical Thinking

Analytical thinking is the process of breaking down complex information into smaller, more manageable parts to understand it better. This skill is crucial on the LSAT for solving questions that involve detailed analysis of arguments and scenarios.
In our example, analytical thinking helps us see how different factors like consistency, flavor, stabilizers, and temperature interact. By analyzing these relationships, we can make sound inferences and evaluations.
Engage your analytical thinking by:

• Breaking down the passage into key components.
• Looking for logical connections between these components.
• Assessing how changes in one part (e.g., temperature) affect others (e.g., need for stabilizers).

When you practice analytical thinking, you become better at highlighting crucial details that might not be immediately obvious.

Reading Comprehension

Reading comprehension involves understanding and interpreting written text. It’s a vital skill in LSAT preparation, allowing you to grasp the nuances of complex passages and arguments.
In the ice cream scenario, reading comprehension helps us understand the relationship between temperature, stabilizers, and the quality of ice cream. By carefully reading, we gather that stabilizers are less needed at low temperatures, implying better flavor conservation.
To improve your reading comprehension:

• Pay attention to keywords and phrases.
• Summarize each paragraph in your own words as you read.
• Focus on the author's main point and the implications of supporting details.

By enhancing your reading comprehension skills, you'll be better equipped to handle complex LSAT passages effectively and efficiently.