The following text is from a book about the history of photography.
The daguerreotype, invented in 1839, was the first commercially practical photographic process. Each image was captured on a silver-plated copper sheet treated with iodine vapor. The process required exposure times of several minutes, making it impractical for portraits. Despite this limitation, the daguerreotype sparked worldwide excitement and marked the beginning of the photographic age.
Which choice best describes the function of the third sentence?
It emphasizes the daguerreotype's revolutionary impact.
It explains why the process was eventually abandoned.
It identifies a significant drawback of the technology.
It compares the daguerreotype to modern digital cameras.
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The third sentence describes long exposure times making portraits "impractical"—a significant drawback of the technology.
- Evidence: The sentence states "process required exposure times of several minutes, making it impractical for portraits."
- Reasoning: Being "impractical" due to long wait times is a negative aspect or limitation.
- Conclusion: The function is to identify a drawback.
💡 Strategy: Determine the tone/implication of the sentence (impractical = negative/drawback).
Choice A is incorrect because it discusses a limitation, not the impact. Choice B is incorrect because abandonment isn't mentioned. Choice D is incorrect because modern cameras aren't mentioned.