Question 8

Explanation

This question tests the ability to draw logical conclusions (syllogism). We can break down the sentences in the text into symbolic logical premises. Let's define three basic statements:

• $P$: It is currently the dry season.
• $Q$: Plants shed their leaves.
• $R$: There is a lot of scattered leaf litter.

Based on the text, we derive two logical implications. The sentence "In the dry season, plants will shed their leaves" can be written as $P \rightarrow Q$. Furthermore, the sentence "when plants shed their leaves, there is a lot of scattered leaf litter" can be written as $Q \rightarrow R$.

Using the principle of Hypothetical Syllogism, we can draw a direct conclusion from $P$ to $R$:

This means that if $P$ occurs, then $R$ must occur. In plain language: "If it is currently the dry season, then there is a lot of scattered leaf litter." Options containing "might be" are incorrect because this deductive logic yields certainty, not mere possibility.

Thus, the correct statement is if it is currently the dry season, then there is a lot of scattered leaf litter.