MAT - Miller Analogies Association and Function Questions and Answers

Question 1

OAR : GALLEY :: _______ : AUTOMOBILE

Accepted Answer

Wheel

Answer

The correct analogy is WHEEL : AUTOMOBILE. An oar is used to propel a galley (a type of ship). Similarly, a wheel is a fundamental component that allows an automobile to move and be propelled. The relationship is one of function or means of propulsion. An engine provides power, but the wheel is the direct means of motion along a surface, just as an oar is the direct means of propulsion in water.

Question 2

HAMMER : CONSTRUCT :: SCALPEL : _______

Accepted Answer

Incise

Answer

The relationship is that of a tool to its primary function. A hammer is a tool used to construct things. A scalpel is a surgical tool used to incise, or make a cut. While a scalpel might be used in a process that could be seen as destructive in some contexts, its specific, primary function in a medical or biological setting is to make a precise incision.

Question 3

Which of the following best completes the analogy? LENS : FOCUS :: _______ : STEER

Accepted Answer

Rudder

Answer

The correct answer is Rudder. The relationship is between an object and its function. A lens's function is to focus light. A rudder's function is to steer a vessel like a ship or boat. While a captain steers, the rudder is the object or instrument used to perform that function.

Question 4

PHOTOSYNTHESIS : PLANT :: _______ : ANIMAL

Accepted Answer

Respiration

Answer

The relationship is that of a fundamental energy-converting process to the organism type in which it occurs. Photosynthesis is the process by which a plant converts light into chemical energy. Respiration is the process by which an animal converts chemical energy (from food) into usable energy (ATP). While animals also grow, digest, and reproduce, respiration is the most analogous cellular process to photosynthesis in terms of energy conversion.

Question 5

CATALYST : ACCELERATE :: INHIBITOR : _______

Accepted Answer

Hinder

Answer

The relationship is based on function, specifically an agent and its effect on a process. A catalyst functions to accelerate a chemical reaction. An inhibitor, conversely, functions to hinder or slow down a reaction. The relationship is one of opposing functions.

MAT Practice Test

MAT Practice Test

MAT - Miller Analogies Association and Function Questions and Answers