Question

the secrets of cova dones
news: history
a cave in spain named cova dones has become an archaeological treasure chest.
in 2023, numerous paintings approximately 24,000 years old were discovered on its walls. in 2025, mysterious rock constructions made from stalagmites were found throughout the cave. in addition to the handiwork of early humans, evidence of an ancient roman sanctuary was also discovered in 2025. this adds yet another layer of history and intrigue to the contents of cova dones.
the cave is about 1,640 feet (about 500 meters) deep. a few of the paintings were first spotted in 2021 by researchers from several spanish universities.
after a later exploration in 2023, the researchers identified more than 110 paintings, drawings, and engravings. they include images of horses, female red deer, stags, and aurochs, an extinct species of wild cattle. there are also lines, geometric and abstract shapes, and macaroni - shaped grooves.
question 5
the article states:
while most of the images are clearly distinguishable, the reason why early humans created them is not. researchers have yet to ascertain whether the images played a role in rituals. or perhaps they were the expression of an artistic sensibility, a form of storytelling, or a mode of communication.
the author’s purpose for writing this passage was to ______.
a. educate readers on the significant role of storytelling during prehistoric times
b. illustrate researchers’ confidence in deciphering early human communications
c. show that methodical study will be required to reach reliable conclusions
d. reveal the central motivation behind early humans’ creation of the images

Explanation:

The passage discusses cave art (Cova Dones) and the unknown reasons for early humans' creation of these images. Option C states that methodical study is needed for reliable conclusions, which aligns with the text's mention of researchers not yet ascertaining the images' purpose, implying further study is required. Option A is incorrect as the passage doesn't focus on storytelling's role in prehistoric education. Option B is wrong because the text shows uncertainty, not researchers' confidence. Option D is incorrect as the passage says the central motivation is not yet revealed, so the author isn't revealing it.

Answer:

C. show that methodical study will be required to reach reliable conclusions