What can be inferred from the following? 'Because x = 3 and y = 5, then x + y = 8.' It is a:

ADeductive argument based on elimination

BDeductive argument based on mathematics ✓ Correct

CInductive argument from authority

DInductive argument from the principle of charity

Correct answer: (B) Deductive argument based on mathematics

Explanation

The passage from x=3 and y=5 to x+y=8 is a deductive argument grounded in mathematics.

The two equations are the premises and the sum is the conclusion.

Given those values, the total is fixed with strict necessity, not mere probability.

Mathematical relations guarantee that the conclusion cannot fail once the premises hold.

Such necessity is the hallmark of deduction rather than inductive support.

Arguments resting on arithmetic or algebraic truth are classed as deductive on mathematics.

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