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Question

Difficulty: MediumTranslating Literal Statements to Paraphrases

In 1842, astronomer Sir John Herschel developed the cyanotype process, a photographic printing method that produced a Prussian blue monochromatic image. While Herschel viewed the technique primarily as a low-cost means to reproduce his complex mathematical notes and calculations, his contemporary Anna Atkins recognized its artistic and scientific utility. Atkins applied the method to botanical specimens, placing algae directly onto treated paper exposed to sunlight. By doing so, she compiled the first book illustrated entirely by photographs, bypassing traditional hand-drawn engravings. Although Herschel originally intended the process for clerical duplication, Atkins's innovative adaptation demonstrated its capacity for precise scientific illustration, bridging the gap between mechanical reproduction and empirical observation.

According to the passage, Herschel valued the cyanotype process primarily as which of the following?

  1. An inexpensive way to duplicate his mathematical writingsAnswer
  2. B
    A method for creating detailed illustrations of celestial bodies
  3. C
    An artistic medium to replace traditional hand-drawn engravings
  4. D
    A lucrative commercial venture to fund his scientific research

Answer

An inexpensive way to duplicate his mathematical writings
The correct option is supported by the second sentence of the passage, which explicitly states that Herschel viewed the cyanotype technique 'primarily as a low-cost means to reproduce his complex mathematical notes and calculations.' Saying it was 'an inexpensive way to duplicate his mathematical writings' is a direct and accurate paraphrase of this literal statement.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Locate the portion of the passage that explains Herschel's perspective on the cyanotype process.
The second sentence states: 'While Herschel viewed the technique primarily as a low-cost means to reproduce his complex mathematical notes and calculations...'
This establishes the factual basis for what Herschel valued about the process.
2
Compare the literal statement with the options to identify an accurate paraphrase.
The phrase 'an inexpensive way to duplicate his mathematical writings' preserves the meaning of 'low-cost means to reproduce his complex mathematical notes and calculations' using synonyms.
The correct answer must restate the text's literal meaning without adding assumptions or shifting the focus.

Key Concept

Translating Literal Statements to Paraphrases
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Topics

Translating Literal Statements to Paraphrases

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