Question

urbanization quick check
how did the invention of the light bulb and advancements in electrical power play a key role in the growth of american cities in the late 1800s?
(1 point)
the artificial lights lit up the night sky, attracting people to the cities
they allowed factories to produce more, which required more workers to move to the cities
they kept economic activity in the cities tied to the number of daylight hours
they solved the problems cities had with getting access to fresh water and proper sanitation

Explanation:

The invention of the light bulb and advancements in electrical power meant factories could operate longer hours (not be limited by daylight). This increased production capacity. To meet the production needs, more workers were required. Workers moved to cities (where the factories were located) for employment opportunities, thus fueling urbanization.

• Option A: While artificial lights did light up cities, the main driver related to urban growth was economic (factory work), not just the visual aspect of lighting the night sky.
• Option C: Electrical power and light bulbs actually removed the tie of economic activity to daylight hours (factories could work at night), so this option is incorrect.
• Option D: Light bulbs and electrical power had no direct relation to solving water - sanitation problems in cities.

Answer:

B. They allowed factories to produce more, which required more workers to move to the cities