GRE Reading Comprehension
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Source: 2014
In humans, the pilomotor reflex leads to the response commonly known as goose bumps, and this response is widely considered to be vestigial—that is, something formerly having a greater physiological advantage than at present. It occurs when the tiny muscle at the base of a hair follicle contracts, pulling the hair upright. In animals with feathers, fur, or quills, this creates a layer of insulating warm air or a reason for predators to think twice before attacking. But human hair is too puny to serve these functions. Goose bumps in humans may, however, have acquired a new role. Like flushing—another thermoregulatory (heat-regulating) mechanism—goose bumps have become linked with emotional responses, notably fear, rage, or the pleasure of, say, listening to beautiful music. They may thus serve as a signal to others.
Question List: 1 2
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the next-to-last sentence ("Like . . . music")?
- A It makes a distinction between two types of mechanisms.
- B It corrects a common misconception about the role of goose bumps in humans.
- C It suggests reasons for the connection between emotional responses and goose bumps in humans.
- D It suggests that flushing and goose bumps signal the same emotional state.
- E It helps explain a possible role played by goose bumps in humans.