in 2008, saudi arabia produced an average of 10,782 barrels of oil per day, while kuwait averaged 2,742…
in 2008, saudi arabia produced an average of 10,782 barrels of oil per day, while kuwait averaged 2,742 barrels per day. however, kuwaits standard of living is markedly higher than saudi arabia. which offers the most likely explanation for this?\na the literacy rate is higher in saudi arabia than in kuwait.\nb kuwait has a much smaller population than saudi arabia.\nc kuwait has closer ties to the united states than does saudi arabia.\nd kuwait has not been impacted by as much war as has saudi arabia.
Answer
Brief Explanations:
To determine the most likely explanation for Kuwait's higher standard of living despite lower oil production, we analyze each option:
- Option A: Higher literacy in Saudi Arabia would likely improve its standard of living, not explain Kuwait's higher one. Eliminate A.
- Option B: Standard of living is often measured by GDP per capita (GDP divided by population). If Kuwait has a smaller population, even with less total oil production, the per - capita oil - related income (and overall GDP per capita) could be higher, leading to a higher standard of living. This is a valid economic - related explanation.
- Option C: Closer ties to the US do not directly correlate with a higher standard of living in a clear - cut way, especially compared to the population - GDP per capita relationship. Eliminate C.
- Option D: Saudi Arabia and Kuwait have both been relatively stable in recent decades, and war impact is not a major differentiator in their standard of living related to oil production differences. Eliminate D.
Answer:
B. Kuwait has a much smaller population than Saudi Arabia.