Question

question 7 of 10
which development most contributed to the start of the second industrial revolution in the late 1800s?
a. the collapse of the railroad industry
b. the availability of inexpensive steel
c. the development of new agricultural tools
d. the invention of water - powered machines

Explanation:

The Second Industrial Revolution (late 1800s - early 1900s) was characterized by advancements in steel production. The Bessemer process made steel inexpensive to produce. Steel was crucial for building infrastructure (like bridges, railroads), machinery, and skyscrapers.

• Option A: The railroad industry did not collapse; in fact, railroads expanded during the Second Industrial Revolution (using steel rails).
• Option C: New agricultural tools were more prominent in the First Industrial Revolution or agricultural revolutions before the late 1800s - early 1900s.
• Option D: Water - powered machines were key in the First Industrial Revolution (e.g., in textile mills), replaced by steam, then electricity in the Second Industrial Revolution.

Answer:

B. The availability of inexpensive steel