Physicist Werner Heisenberg's 1925 lecture on quantum mechanics reflects his belief that empirical observation is crucial: ______
GMAT Information and Ideas : (Ideas) Questions
Physicist Werner Heisenberg's 1925 lecture on quantum mechanics reflects his belief that empirical observation is crucial: ______
Which choice best describes the function of the second sentence in the overall structure of the text?
'We must base our theories on what we can actually measure.'
'The mathematical formulations require careful consideration.'
'Previous approaches have guided our current work.'
'Can we truly understand the nature of reality?'
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 'Physicist Werner Heisenberg's 1925 lecture on quantum mechanics reflects his belief that empirical observation is crucial:' |
|
| [MISSING CONTENT] |
|
Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Heisenberg's quantum mechanics work was founded on the principle that empirical observation is essential to scientific theory.
Argument Flow: The passage establishes Heisenberg's historical context and scientific philosophy, then signals that specific evidence or elaboration of his belief will follow.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
This is a fill-in-the-blank question asking us to choose the best logical connector. The answer must create the right relationship between what comes before and after the blank.
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- The colon after 'empirical observation is crucial' signals that what follows should directly explain, exemplify, or elaborate on this belief
- The right choice should either: directly state what empirical observation means in practical terms, explain how this belief should guide scientific work, or connect observation to theory-building
'We must base our theories on what we can actually measure.'
✓ Correct
- Correct - This directly elaborates on what 'empirical observation is crucial' means in practice
- 'We must base our theories on what we can actually measure' perfectly explains the practical application of valuing empirical observation
'The mathematical formulations require careful consideration.'
✗ Incorrect
- 'Mathematical formulations require careful consideration' shifts focus from empirical observation to mathematical theory
- Doesn't elaborate on the importance of empirical observation
'Previous approaches have guided our current work.'
✗ Incorrect
- 'Previous approaches have guided our current work' focuses on historical continuity rather than empirical observation
- Doesn't explain what makes empirical observation crucial
'Can we truly understand the nature of reality?'
✗ Incorrect
- 'Can we truly understand the nature of reality?' poses a philosophical question rather than elaborating on empirical observation
- Changes from making a statement about method to questioning the possibility of knowledge