Question

which quotation from a history of the world in 100 objects best reveals the historical significance of the chronometer?

○ the chronometer for the first time allowed absolutely accurate charting of the oceans, with all that implied for establishing safe and rapid shipping routes.

○ darwin’s voyage on the beagle and his subsequent work on evolution pushed human origins into an unthinkably distant past.

○ geologists had already demonstrated that the earth was far older than previously believed, undermining the calculation made by archbishop usher.

○ thanks to clockmakers like earnshaw, precise and reliable clocks and watches became ever more affordable.

Explanation:

To determine the quotation that reveals the historical significance of the chronometer, we analyze each option:

• The first option directly states how the chronometer allowed accurate ocean charting and improved shipping routes, which is a key historical impact of the chronometer.
• The second option is about Darwin's voyage and evolution, not related to the chronometer's significance.
• The third option is about geological findings on Earth's age, unrelated to the chronometer.
• The fourth option is about clock affordability, not the historical significance of the chronometer in navigation/exploration.

Answer:

A. The chronometer for the first time allowed absolutely accurate charting of the oceans, with all that implied for establishing safe and rapid shipping routes.