Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Only I and III follows
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This is a chain of subset relations with one existential (“Some pots are buckets”). We must decide which conclusions necessarily hold.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Use transitivity of subsets and track the existential element guaranteed by “Some pots are buckets.”
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) From “Some pots are buckets” and the chain buckets ⊆ tubs ⊆ drums, those specific pots are also drums. Hence “Some drums are pots” is necessary (Conclusion I true).2) “All tubs are buckets” is the converse of the given “All buckets are tubs.” Converse need not hold; Conclusion II is false.3) Because buckets ⊆ drums and at least one bucket exists (from “Some pots are buckets”), there exists at least one object that is both a drum and a bucket. Hence “Some drums are buckets” is necessary (Conclusion III true).
Verification / Alternative check:
Draw a chain Pots → Buckets → Tubs → Drums with a marked example element in pots∩buckets. The element traces into drums, confirming I and III.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming converses of universal statements and overlooking the existential support provided by “Some…”
Final Answer:
Only I and III follows.
Discussion & Comments