Break down the argument. Explicitly identify the component statements (p, q, r,
ID: 2903421 • Letter: B
Question
Break down the argument. Explicitly identify the component statements (p, q, r, etc.) that make up the argument and show the symbolic form of the argument.
Analyze the argument. Decide whether the argument is valid or invalid by manipulating the premises, if necessary, and eventually recognizing the logical form of the argument (e.g. Modus Ponens, Modus Tollens, Fallacy of the Inverse, etc.)
3 If the fossil is an ammonite, then it is from the Crestaceous period. If the fossil is not from the Mesozoic era, then it is not from the Crestaceous period. If the fossil is from the Mesozoic era, then it is at least 65 million years old. Therefore, if the fossil is an ammonite, it is at least 65 million years old.
Explanation / Answer
If the fossil is not from the Mesozoic era, then it is not from the Crestaceous period.
its inverse is
if the fossil is from crestaceous period,then it is from mesozoic era
(p=>q inverse is (not p=>not q))
so if the fossil is ammoniate,then it is from the Crestaceous period
if the fossil is from crestaceous period,then it is from mesozoic era
If the fossil is from the Mesozoic era, then it is at least 65 million years old
combin ing three statments
if the fossil is an ammonite, it is at least 65 million years old.
(p=>q & q=>r is p=>r)