Pumped up.

• Position: QUIZ - Brief article

Choose the best answer for each of the following questions.

1. Economists say that a substantial drop in oil prices--like the one the U.S. is experiencing now--has the same effect on the U.S. economy as

   a a tax cut.

   b a tax hike,

   c a natural disaster,

   d a major recession.

2. All of the following except -- are oil-producing countries that are hostile to American interests.

   a Venezuela

   b Russia

   c Mexico

   d Iran

3. The U.S. recently became the world's top oil producer, surpassing longtime leader --

   a Iraq.

   b Iran.

   c United Arab Emirates.

   d Saudi Arabia.

4. According to the article, a concern that some have about hydraulic fracturing technology is that

   a it extracts natural gas but not oil.

   b it can't produce enough oil to meet rising U.S. demand.

   c it may contaminate water supplies,

   d none of the above

5. Which statement about recent demand for oil is true?

   a Americans have been driving a greater number of miles, causing a sharp rise in domestic demand,

   b Sagging European economies have caused a global increase in demand.

   c Fuel-efficient cars have helped drive a decline in demand.

   d OPEC has cut back production, contributing to a decline in demand.

6. Who's likely to applaud the recent low gas prices?

   a environmentalists

   b employees in the oil industry

   c drivers

   d all of the above

   IN-DEPTH QUESTIONS

7. Evaluate what lower gas and oil prices might mean for your community. Is the overall effect positive or negative? --

8. To what extent should Americans change their habits and behaviors to...