The following text discusses a development in transportation.
High-speed rail has transformed travel in countries like Japan and France, where trains regularly exceed 300 kilometers per hour. The United States, however, has been slow to adopt this technology. While several projects have been proposed, including a line connecting Los Angeles and San Francisco, high costs, political opposition, and the country's car-centric culture have delayed progress. Advocates argue that high-speed rail could reduce both traffic congestion and carbon emissions.
Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
Japan has the fastest trains in the world
Despite potential benefits, the US has struggled to implement high-speed rail
High-speed trains are more dangerous than other forms of transportation
California is building a new highway system
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. The text contrasts success elsewhere with US struggles, lists obstacles (costs, politics, culture), and notes potential benefits.
- Evidence: "The United States, however, has been slow to adopt" despite benefits.
- Reasoning: The contrast between potential and reality is central.
- Conclusion: The main idea is about US struggles despite acknowledged benefits.
Choice A is incorrect because Japan is just an example, not the focus. Choice C is incorrect because safety is not mentioned. Choice D is incorrect because highways aren't discussed.