Q: I read this background article the other day: The brains of all mammals have a unique layer of nerve cells covering the cerebrum. This layer is called the neocortex (the pink region of the brains in Figure above ). The neocortex plays an important role in many complex brain functions. In some mammals, such as rats, the neocortex is relatively smooth. In other mammals, especially humans, the neocortex has many folds. The folds increase the surface area of the neocortex. The larger this area is, the greater the mental abilities of an animal.  I am facing a new situation today: Two students read about brains in the animal kingdom. Tom read more about the brains of mammals, while Reed learned more about the brains of amphibians.  Using the knowledge I acquired from the background article, how should I answer correctly the following question regarding my new situation: Which student learned more about the neocortex of rats?
A: Tom

Q: I read this background article the other day: East Antarctica is colder than its western counterpart because of its higher elevation. Weather fronts rarely penetrate far into the continent, leaving the centre cold and dry. Despite the lack of precipitation over the central portion of the continent, ice there lasts for extended periods. Heavy snowfalls are common on the coastal portion of the continent, where snowfalls of up to 1.22 metres (48 in) in 48 hours have been recorded.  I am facing a new situation today: Two teams of scientists were in Antarctica to study the weather. Camp Alpha was located in East Antarctica, while camp Omega was situated in West Antarctica.  Using the knowledge I acquired from the background article, how should I answer correctly the following question regarding my new situation: Which camp experienced colder weather?
A: Alpha

Q: I read this background article the other day: Allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe. Mild symptoms might include itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. Severe symptoms can cause difficulty breathing, which may be life threatening. Keep in mind that it is the immune system and not the allergen that causes the allergy symptoms. Allergy symptoms can be treated with medications such as antihistamines. Severe allergic reactions may require an injection of the hormone epinephrine. These treatments lessen or counter the immune system’s response.  I am facing a new situation today: Two sisters both had allergies. Ann had mild allergies, while Jo had to be very careful because she experienced severe allergic reactions before.  Using the knowledge I acquired from the background article, how should I answer correctly the following question regarding my new situation: Which sister didn't get itchy eyes?
A: Jo

Q: I read this background article the other day: One result of air pollution is acid rain. Acid rain is precipitation with a low (acidic) pH. This rain can be very destructive to wildlife. When acid rain falls in forests, freshwater habitats, or soils, it can kill insects and aquatic life. It causes this damage because of its very low pH. Sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides in the air both cause acid rain to form ( Figure below ). Sulfur oxides are chemicals that are released from coal-fired power plants. Nitrogen oxides are released from motor vehicle exhaust.  I am facing a new situation today: Italy and Greece attended the World Ecological Conference. they were looking for solutions to improve their environment. Italy's air was very polluted, while Greece had problems with drought.  Using the knowledge I acquired from the background article, how should I answer correctly the following question regarding my new situation: Which country had more acid precipitation fall in freshwater habitats?
A: