The physicist rightly dreads precise argument, since an argument that is convincing only if it is precise loses all its force if the assumptions on which it is based are slightly changed, whereas an argument that is convincing though imprecise may well be stable under small perturbations of its underlying assumptions.
21. The author discusses computing machines in the first paragraph primarily in order to do which of the following?
(A) Indicate the dangers inherent in relying to a great extent on machines
(B) Illustrate his views about the approach of mathematicians to problem solving
(C) Compare the work of mathematicians with that of computer programmers
(D) Provide one definition of intelligence
(E) Emphasize the importance of computers in modern technological society
22. According to the passage, scientists are skeptical toward their equations because scientists
(A) work to explain real, rather than theoretical or simplified, situations
(B) know that well-defined problems are often the most difficult to solve
(C) are unable to express their data in terms of multiple variables
(D) are unwilling to relax the axioms they have developed
(E) are unable to accept mathematical explanations of natural phenomena
23. It can be inferred from the passage that scientists make which of the following assumptions about scientific arguments?
(A) The literal truth of the arguments can be made clear only in a mathematical context.
(B) The arguments necessarily ignore the central question of scientific investigation.
(C) The arguments probably will be convincing only to other scientists.
(D) The conclusions of the arguments do not necessarily follow from their premises.
(E) The premises on which the arguments are based may change.
24. According to the passage, mathematicians present a danger to scientists for which of the following reasons?
(A) Mathematicians may provide theories that are incompatible with those already developed by scientists.
(B) Mathematicians may define situation in a way that is incomprehensible to scientists.
(C) Mathematicians may convince scientists that theoretical assumptions are facts.
(D) Scientists may come to believe that axiomatic statements are untrue.
(E) Scientists may begin to provide arguments that are convincing but imprecise.
25. The author suggests that the approach of physi- cists to solving scientific problems is which of the following?
(A) Practical for scientific purposes
(B) Detrimental to scientific progress
(C) Unimportant in most situations
(D) Expedient, but of little long-term value
(E) Effective, but rarely recognized as such
26. The author suggests that a mathematician asked to solve a problem in an ill-defined situation would first attempt to do which of the following?
(A) Identify an analogous situation
(B) Simplify and define the situation
(C) Vary the underlying assumptions of a description of the situation
(D) Determine what use would be made of the solution provided
(E) Evaluate the theoretical assumptions that might explain the situation
27. The author implies that scientists develop a healthy skepticism because they are aware that
(A) mathematicians are better able to solve problems than are scientists
(B) changes in axiomatic propositions will inevitably undermine scientific arguments
(C) well-defined situations are necessary for the design of reliable experiments
(D) mathematical solutions can rarely be applied to real problems
(E) some factors in most situations must remain unknown
28. EVACUATE:
(A) boil off (B) fill up (C) melt down
(D) neutralize (E) spin
29. OUTLANDISH:
(A) prolific (B) unchanging
(C) conventional (D) noticeable
(E) transparent
30. INHIBITOR:
(A) catalyst (B) acid (C
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