Explanation
In this question, we're asked to explain why local
governments can't solve water scarcity themselves. The key to answering this
question is that we need to choose an explanation that is consistent with the
passage, since the question has asked, "according to the passage." So, for example,
an answer choice that would imply that the author's plan is not going to work
would not be a good explanation according to the passage. We can start with
that as a basic filter on the answer choices; which would allow the plan still
to work? Choices (A), (B), and (C) are all pretty major problems that would
possibly thwart the author's plan. Choices (D) and (E), on the other hand, are
both very much in the realm of what the author is talking about. (D) cites lack of knowledge; (E) cites lack of financial
capital. Which fits better with the author's argument? The lack of finances.
Consider paragraph 2: the main problems are lack of "political and financial
capital" (line 15), and the fact that infrastructure requires "considerable
investment" (line 22). Know-how is only mentioned later to express that soft
drink companies could do the job, not to say local governments don't have the
know-how. Furthermore, lines 48-52 imply that local governments would have
political support from the outside and would need or could use financial
support from the outside, which on both points directly supports (E).
The correct answer is (E).
Passage 4
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