Question

1. gilda shrugged. but after dinner, mama waved them out the door. \go outside, you two,\ she said.
2. in the soft warmth of the evening, gilda gave a satisfied sigh and settled herself beneath the enormous fig tree. \feels like home,\ she said. malik disliked the fig tree—it created a mess of overripe figs in the yard, which he had to clean up.
3. \it drops figs everywhere,\ he said. right then, a juicy fig landed with a splat on his head. \ugh!\ malik cried. gilda chuckled, covering her mouth. not funny, malik thought, practically pouting. what he needed was a brilliant isaac newton moment to go with the fruit falling on his head.

what is the effect of malik referring to isaac newton?

it suggests that malik is hoping to be struck with a bright idea.

it shows that malik is interested in science.

it contrasts the gravity of malik’s problem with his carefree attitude about it.

Explanation:

Isaac Newton is known for the idea of gravity inspired by an apple falling on his head. Malik has a fig fall on his head and wants a "brilliant Isaac Newton moment", meaning he hopes for a bright idea (like Newton's) from the fruit - falling event. The option about interest in science is not supported (the reference is about getting an idea, not general science interest), and the contrast option is incorrect as Malik is frustrated, not carefree.

Answer:

It suggests that Malik is hoping to be struck with a bright idea.