Which of these details does NOT support the central
idea?
Central Idea: Even though one of Edison’s inventions failed, he never stopped
trying out new ideas.
A) The vocal engine was a cumbersome device for the
user.
B) Edison created a version of the light bulb that
was affordable and long-lasting.
C) Sound waves are not powerful enough to make the
vocal engine useful.
D) The vocal engine had a few fatal flaws.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The detail that does NOT support the central idea is A) The vocal engine was a cumbersome device for the user.
Explanation:
The central idea of the statement emphasizes Thomas Edison’s perseverance in inventing despite failures. The essence of the statement is to highlight that, regardless of setbacks, Edison continued to explore new concepts and inventions.
Now, let’s examine each option to see how it relates to this central idea:
- A) The vocal engine was a cumbersome device for the user.
This detail focuses on the practicality and usability of the vocal engine. While it acknowledges a flaw in one of Edison’s inventions, it does not directly relate to his persistence or continued innovation. Instead, it implies a limitation rather than an encouragement to keep trying. Hence, this detail does not support the central idea that Edison kept inventing despite failures. - B) Edison created a version of the light bulb that was affordable and long-lasting.
This detail supports the central idea as it highlights Edison’s success in creating a viable product after prior failures, showcasing his determination and ability to learn from past mistakes. - C) Sound waves are not powerful enough to make the vocal engine useful.
This statement identifies a critical failure of the vocal engine, emphasizing that despite the setback, the underlying scientific challenges did not deter Edison from pursuing further inventions, thus supporting the central idea. - D) The vocal engine had a few fatal flaws.
Similar to option C, this detail underscores the challenges faced by Edison, illustrating that even with failures, he continued to innovate, reinforcing the central idea.
In conclusion, while options B, C, and D provide insights into Edison’s innovative spirit and resilience, option A does not align with the theme of persistence in the face of failure and therefore is the correct answer.