Immediate Cause — Crowded Beaches: Statement: The beaches are now full of families on holiday, taking surfing lessons, and doing para-sailing and other leisure activities. Which of the following is the most immediate cause of this effect?
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AThe weather has become very pleasant.
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BPeople’s lives have become very stressful.
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CPeople’s disposable incomes have increased.
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DBeaches have been heavily advertised as holiday destinations.
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EInternational travel has become cheaper.
Answer
Correct Answer: The weather has become very pleasant.
Explanation
Introduction / Context:We observe a sudden surge in beach activity. Among multiple plausible drivers, we must pick the most immediate catalyst that directly increases same-day turnout.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Effect: Beached teeming with holidaying families and learners.
- Candidate causes: weather change, stress, income, advertising, cheaper travel.
Concept / Approach:Short-term spikes in outdoor attendance correlate most directly with favourable weather. Income growth and advertising act over longer horizons; stress is too diffuse; travel costs affect destination choice more than punctual footfall.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Filter for immediacy: which cause can fill beaches “now”?2) Pleasant weather (a) instantly raises the desirability and safety of water sports.3) Therefore, (a) is the most immediate cause.Verification / Alternative check:Bad weather would empty beaches even with ads and high incomes; conversely, a sudden sunny spell quickly draws crowds—confirming weather’s immediacy.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:(b) Stress is chronic and non-specific; (c) income influences affordability but not immediate timing; (d) ads need time to convert; (e) cheaper international travel could divert tourists away rather than pack local beaches.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing long-run demand shifters with immediate attendance drivers.
Final Answer:Option A: The weather has become very pleasant.