Question

read chapter two of windows to the universe: revolutions in astronomy.

which example of a supporting text would best connect to the main idea that advancements in lenses and mirrors led to more powerful telescopes?

a discussion of how the james webb space telescope uses infrared technology to study distant galaxies
a description of how adaptive optics in telescopes filter out the atmosphere to create sharper images
a summary of how radio telescopes detect signals from distant stars and black holes
a discussion of how modern observatories use computer systems to control telescopes

Explanation:

Analyze the target main idea

The target main idea is: "advancements in lenses and mirrors led to more powerful telescopes." We need to find the supporting text example that directly connects to optical advancements (lenses and mirrors) rather than other technologies (infrared, radio waves, or computer control).

Evaluate the options

• Option 1 (James Webb Space Telescope uses infrared technology): Focuses on infrared wavelengths, not specifically advancements in lenses and mirrors.
• Option 2 (Adaptive optics filter out the atmosphere to create sharper images): Adaptive optics directly involves the real-time deformation of mirrors to correct for atmospheric distortion, directly supporting how advancements in mirrors lead to more powerful telescopes.
• Option 3 (Radio telescopes detect signals): Focuses on radio waves and antennas, not optical lenses or mirrors.
• Option 4 (Computer systems to control telescopes): Focuses on digital/software control systems rather than optical components.

Select the best supporting connection

Option 2 is the only choice that directly relates to optical advancements (mirrors/optics) improving telescope performance (creating sharper images).

Answer:

• a discussion of how the James Webb Space Telescope uses infrared technology to study distant galaxies
• a description of how adaptive optics in telescopes filter out the atmosphere to create sharper images (Correct answer)
• a summary of how radio telescopes detect signals from distant stars and black holes
• a discussion of how modern observatories use computer systems to control telescopes