Recent Research Shows that Hyenas Outperform Chimps in Solving Problems Through Teamwork.

Reading Passage Question

Recent research shows that hyenas outperform chimps in solving problems through teamwork. In experiments by a major U.S. university, spotted hyena pairs were introduced into a pen containing two large platforms placed ten feet above the ground. From each platform dangled two ropes that when pulled in unison opened a trapdoor and provided a food reward. The experiment design, with the dual platforms and double ropes, ensured that the hyenas could not perform the task individually or by chance as a pair. Captive hyena pairs were given no training in the task, but the first pair took less than two minutes to solve the problem. Primates, such as chimps, required extensive training to complete similar tasks.

Researchers found that the size of each hyena party and pair membership had effects on performance. For example, when more than two hyenas were present, the task was solved more quickly, even if the additional hyenas were merely observing. When two dominant hyenas were paired, they performed less successfully than dominant-subordinate pairs. Thus, social context influenced the hyenas' behavior. Consequently, the research shows that social carnivores, defined as animals that hunt in packs, may be effective models for exploring cooperative problem solving. Past research focused on large brained primates, such as chimps, which are capable of higher cognitive function, in the assumption that higher cognitive function made primates more capable of organized teamwork. However, as study coauthor Christine Drea concludes, the newer experiments "show that [hyenas] are more hard-wired for social cooperation than chimpanzees."

“Recent research shows that hyenas outperform chimps in solving problems through teamwork. “- is a GMAT reading comprehension passage with answers. Candidates need a strong knowledge of English GMAT reading comprehension.

This GMAT Reading Comprehension consists of 3 comprehension questions. The GMAT Reading Comprehension questions are designed for the purpose of testing candidates’ abilities in understanding, analyzing, and applying information or concepts. Candidates can actively prepare with the help of GMAT Reading Comprehension Practice Questions.

Solution and Explanation

Question1
It can be inferred from the passage that

1. results in lab studies do not parallel results in the wild.
2. future research in social cognition should focus only on social carnivores.
3. chimps are not as smart as hyenas.
4. cooperative problem solving is more instinctive for hyenas than for primates.
5. wolves would perform poorly on a similar team problem solving task

Question 2
The author most likely mentions "social context" in order to

1. imply that primates are not social animals.
2. prove that the hyenas' problem-solving skills are greater than those of chimps.
3. give an example of how hyenas work together.
4. provide an explanation for why hyenas' problem-solving abilities varied.
5. show that hyenas perform better with an audience.

Question 3
Which of the following, if true, would most strengthen Drea's position?

1. Even untrained hyenas rarely pulled on the rope if no other hyena was present.
2. Aggression in paired dominant animals interfered with cooperation.
3. The required action in the double-rope experiment imitates the action required to bring down prey in the wild.
4. Success rates were also greater for hyenas in experiments requiring nonsocial problem-solving skills.
5. Once trained, chimps could perform the double-rope experiment faster than hyenas.

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