Question

the cause of the damaged relations between japan and the united states was that...
a japan invaded china and the u.s. responded with diplomatic and economic pressure.
b the united states used military force to halt japanese expansion.
c japan threatened to cut off trade with the united states.
d the united states used economic pressures to prevent japan from joining the axis alliance.

Explanation:

Japan invaded China in the 1930s. The U.S. responded with diplomatic (such as condemning the aggression) and economic pressure (like oil embargoes which Japan relied on for its war - machine). The U.S. did not use military force initially to halt Japanese expansion (eliminating B). Japan was the one facing trade cut - offs (not threatening to cut off trade, eliminating C). The U.S. economic pressures were more about Japan's aggression in China rather than specifically preventing Japan from joining the Axis (though it had that effect, but the direct cause was Japan's invasion of China, eliminating D).

Answer:

A. Japan invaded China and the U.S. responded with diplomatic and economic pressure.