Question

which option is an example of how technological innovation can influence economic change?

after interest rates dropped, a sushi restaurant was able to take out a loan to open a second location.
in response to customer feedback, a construction company switched to using recycled water-based paint.
to encourage people to take better care of their teeth, a dentist offers free cleanings.
to increase efficiency, a chain of big box stores installed self-check checkouts in all of its locations.

Explanation:

Analyze the core question requirements

The question asks for an example of how technological innovation can influence economic change. This requires identifying an option that features a new or improved technology (innovation) leading to a change in economic activity, productivity, or business operations (economic change).

Evaluate each option against the criteria

• Option 1: "After interest rates dropped, a sushi restaurant was able to take out a loan to open a second location." This describes a monetary policy change (interest rates) influencing business expansion, not technological innovation.
• Option 2: "In response to customer feedback, a construction company switched to using recycled water-based paint." This describes a response to consumer preferences and environmental sustainability, not a technological innovation driving economic change.
• Option 3: "To encourage people to take better care of their teeth, a dentist offers free cleanings." This describes a promotional marketing strategy or public health incentive, not technological innovation.
• Option 4: "To increase efficiency, a chain of big box stores installed self-check checkouts in all of its locations." This describes the adoption of a new technology (self-checkout systems) to improve operational efficiency and reduce labor costs, which directly represents technological innovation driving economic change.

Answer:

• (A) After interest rates dropped, a sushi restaurant was able to take out a loan to open a second location.
• (B) In response to customer feedback, a construction company switched to using recycled water-based paint.
• (C) To encourage people to take better care of their teeth, a dentist offers free cleanings.
• (D) To increase efficiency, a chain of big box stores installed self-check checkouts in all of its locations. (Correct answer)