Question

question 14 of 20
read this passage from \exhalation\ by ted chiang:

one sect has dedicated itself to the goal of reversing the
equalization of pressure, and found many adherents. the
mechanicians among them constructed an engine that
takes air from our atmosphere and forces it into a smaller
volume, a process they called \compression.\ their engine
restores air to the pressure it originally had in the reservoir,
and these reversalists excitedly announced that it would
form the basis of a new kind of filling station, one that
would—with each lung it refilled—revitalize not only
individuals but the universe itself.
which two ideas does the passage most clearly develop?

a. technology can solve perplexing problems; fanatics exist even in
a world of robots.

b. necessity is the mother of invention; the universe is a vast and
mysterious place.

c. immortality is a much sought after goal; experimentation is the
mother of discovery.

d. humankind seeks answers to the riddle of the universe; the
universe is self - sustaining.

Explanation:

The sect is trying to reverse pressure (seeking answers about the universe's workings - humankind seeking answers to the riddle of the universe). The idea of the filling - station revitalizing the universe implies a view that the universe could be self - sustaining (if the filling - station can help it).

Answer:

D. Humankind seeks answers to the riddle of the universe; the universe is self - sustaining.