Logical reasoning — Costs and materials (choose the statement that must be true) Facts: Eyeglass frames cost between $35 and $350. Some eyeglass frames are made of titanium. Some eyeglass frames are made of plastic. Which statements must also be facts? I: Titanium frames cost more than plastic frames. II: Expensive frames last longer than cheap frames. III: Only a few frames cost less than $35.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: None of the statements is a known fact.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The problem asks us to separate known facts from assumptions about price and durability. The given facts specify a price range and the existence of two materials; they do not give relative costs or performance differences for those materials.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • All eyeglass frames are priced in the interval [$35, $350].
  • There exist titanium frames and plastic frames.
  • No further relation between price and material is stated.


Concept / Approach:
To be a “must,” a statement must hold in every interpretation compatible with the facts. If we can imagine any consistent scenario where a statement fails, it is not a necessary fact.



Step-by-Step Solution:

I: “Titanium frames cost more than plastic frames.” We can construct scenarios where some titanium frames are cheaper than some plastic ones (or vice versa), all within $35–$350. Not guaranteed.II: “Expensive frames last longer than cheap frames.” Durability is not discussed; could be false. Not guaranteed.III: “Only a few frames cost less than $35.” This directly contradicts the range, which starts at $35. Frames costing less than $35 need not exist at all. Not guaranteed.


Verification / Alternative check:
Pick any valid price examples (e.g., titanium at $80, plastic at $200; or swap). All facts hold, but I fails in at least one scenario. Similarly, II and III are independent of given data or contradict it.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • I only / II only / II and III only / I and III only: Each asserts information not secured by the premises.


Common Pitfalls:
Importing real-world stereotypes (e.g., “titanium is pricier” or “expensive lasts longer”) when the logical task forbids unstated assumptions.



Final Answer:
None of the statements is a known fact.

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