The following text discusses renewable energy storage.
Battery technology remains a bottleneck for renewable energy adoption. Solar and wind power generation fluctuates with weather conditions, requiring storage to ensure consistent supply. Lithium-ion batteries dominate current markets but face material scarcity and disposal challenges. Researchers are exploring alternatives including solid-state batteries, hydrogen fuel cells, and even gravity-based storage systems.
Which choice best describes the function of the first sentence?
It establishes the central problem that the rest of the passage addresses.
It provides a comprehensive history of battery development.
It questions whether renewable energy is actually beneficial.
It compares different types of battery chemistry in detail.
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The first sentence identifies storage as a "bottleneck"—the central problem that the passage then elaborates on.
- Evidence: The sentence states: "Battery technology remains a bottleneck for renewable energy adoption."
- Reasoning: The term "bottleneck" signals a problem or obstruction. The rest of the text explains why (fluctuation) and what is being done (alternatives).
- Conclusion: The function is to establish the central problem.
💡 Strategy: Focus on the keyword "bottleneck" -> implies a problem to be solved.
Choice B is incorrect because no history is provided. Choice C is incorrect because renewable benefits aren't questioned. Choice D is incorrect because detailed comparison comes later.