Question

text structure and purpose
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the discovery of the antikythera mechanism in 1900 revolutionized our understanding of ancient greek technology. found in a shipwreck off the greek island of antikythera, this complex device, consisting of at least 30 bronze gears, dates back to the 2nd century bce. research suggests it was used to calculate astronomical positions and predict eclipses. the antikythera mechanism’s sophistication challenges long - held assumptions about the limitations of ancient science and engineering, demonstrating that the ancient greeks possessed advanced mechanical knowledge and skill.
which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?
choose 1 answer:
a it provides evidence to support the claim that the antikythera mechanism was used for astronomical calculations.
b it highlights the significance of the discovery of the antikythera mechanism.
c it introduces a counterargument to the prevailing theory about the purpose of the antikythera mechanism.
d it suggests that the complexity of the antikythera mechanism was unique among ancient greek mechanical devices.

Explanation:

The underlined sentence talks about how the Antikythera mechanism's sophistication challenges old assumptions and shows the Greeks' advanced knowledge. The text starts by saying the discovery revolutionized understanding. The underlined sentence explains why the discovery is significant (it changes views on ancient science/engineering). Option A is wrong as the sentence isn't about providing evidence for astronomical use. Option C is wrong as it's not a counterargument. Option D is wrong as it doesn't say the mechanism was unique. So B is correct.

Answer:

B. It highlights the significance of the discovery of the Antikythera mechanism.