@erojas @alymathieu I think the reason why its not answer choice (E) is because it actually weakens the argument because this answer choice is saying that it was a new virus that caused the drop in seal population in the North Sea instead of pollution.
In the question stem the argument or conclusion is that POLLUTION is the cause of the drop in seal population. Therefore if answer choice (E) were true than it would be the NEW VIRUS and NOT POLLUTION that cause the drop in seal population. Thus I believe E weakens the argument instead of strengthens it.
RaviJuly 30, 2019
@erojas, @alymathieu, and @Lauren-Au,
@Lauren-Au's explanation is on the money. If it's a brand new virus, then we do not need pollution as a reason to explain why it's killing seals. It's killing the seals because they are not prepared for it, so this is why (E) would weaken the argument.
Does this make sense? Let us know if you have any more questions!
