Expression of IdeasVery hardComparing two historical figures' approaches
Expression of Ideas practice question
While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:
- Mary Somerville (1780–1872) wrote books explaining the mathematics of astronomy to general readers.
- Caroline Herschel (1750–1848) discovered eight comets through direct observation.
- Somerville's books went through many editions.
- Herschel was the first woman paid a salary for scientific work in Britain.
The student wants to contrast how Somerville and Herschel contributed to astronomy.
Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
- A. Whereas Herschel advanced astronomy through her own observations, discovering eight comets, Somerville advanced it by explaining its mathematics to the public in widely reprinted books.Correct
- B. Somerville and Herschel were both astronomers.
- C. Herschel was the first woman in Britain paid a salary for scientific work.
- D. Somerville's books went through many editions.
Answer: A. Whereas Herschel advanced astronomy through her own observations, discovering eight comets, Somerville advanced it by explaining its mathematics to the public in widely reprinted books.
Observation versus explanation, with a fact for each.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. Somerville and Herschel were both astronomers.
- A similarity, not a contrast.
- C. Herschel was the first woman in Britain paid a salary for scientific work.
- Herschel only.
- D. Somerville's books went through many editions.
- Somerville only.
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