QUESTION:

Based on the passage, the higher average speeds were probably the result of

F. Greater friction
G. Temperature variations
H. Too much sunlight
J. Statistical error

CORRECT ANSWER: [F]
EXPLANATION: Since the passage indicates that all three of the studies were, "conducted indoors in a temperature controlled room," you can eliminate answer G and H. The studies also dealt with different types of wheels, and the traction they would provide, so the most likely reason for the highest average speeds is greater friction, answer choice F.

MY QUESTION: I accept about elimination G and H. But, If higher the average speed, then the smoother the surface should be, should in'nt? (please answer this question)

Since you didn't post all of the passage but only your interpretation I don't think I want to risk an answer; however, I think I can answer your question. I don't think the higher average speed means smoother surfaces; in fact, I think it could mean the opposite. That is the greater traction provided more work output of whatever was producing the speeds in the first place. One might think more friction would produce more heat and that would produce higher average speeds but if the room was temperature controlled how could that be a factor?

Thank you DrBob222. It makes sense to me.

Yes, you are correct. If the average speed is higher, it would generally indicate a smoother surface with less resistance. However, in this particular passage, the studies were conducted indoors in a temperature-controlled room, where the surface conditions were controlled and consistent for all three studies. Therefore, the variability in average speeds observed cannot be attributed to differences in surface smoothness. Instead, the most likely reason for the higher average speeds is greater friction, as indicated by the different types of wheels used in the studies and the traction they provided.

Your question is regarding the relationship between higher average speed and the smoothness of the surface. It is a valid point to consider that a smoother surface would generally result in higher average speeds. However, in this specific passage, the studies were conducted indoors in a temperature-controlled room using different types of wheels. Since the studies dealt with the traction provided by the wheels, it is reasonable to assume that the variations in average speed were not primarily influenced by the smoothness of the surface.

It's important to note that the passage does not provide explicit information about the smoothness of the surface. Therefore, while having a smoother surface can contribute to higher average speeds in general scenarios, we cannot make the assumption based solely on the given passage.