Final answer:
The most likely consequence of falling petroleum prices is more sales of traditional, large cars, as cheaper gasoline costs make them more attractive to consumers.
C is correct
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely consequence of falling petroleum prices is option C, More sales of traditional, large cars. When oil prices decrease, gasoline becomes cheaper, and consumers are less concerned with fuel efficiency. This tends to increase the demand for larger vehicles that may not be as fuel-efficient because the cost of operating such vehicles decreases.
Lower petroleum prices typically reduce the urgency for investing in alternatives such as public transportation or electric cars, hence there would be less interest in option B (Increased demand for electric cars). Similarly, falling prices can reduce the financial incentive for oil exploration as it may not be economically viable, which counters option D (Increased interest in oil exploration).