MCAT Behavioral Sciences Question 264: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 264

1. According to Figure 1, what is true about life expectancy in the United States?

  • A. In recent years, the life expectancy for infants has plateaued for both sexes.
  • B. Age 35 is the ideal age to accurately determine the expectancy of life for both sexes.
  • C. In 1980, males at age 55 had a higher life expectancy compared females at age 55.
  • D. At the age of 75, life expectancy consistently increased over time for both sexes.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

According to Figure 1, for both males and females at the age of 0, life expectancy 1980–2000 has not increased significantly; therefore, this figure illustrates that the life expectancy of infants has plateaued (choice A is correct). There is not enough information given in the passage or the figure to determine the age that is most ideal for accurately calculating life expectancy (choice B is wrong). In 1980, males at the age of 55 had a lower life expectancy rate (34.2) than females (36.8; choice C is wrong). Between the years 1900–2000, life expectancy rates at age 75 decreased for females in 1920 and for males in 1940 (choice D is wrong).

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