A historian analyzed factory output (units per worker per day) in four years: 1880, 12; 1910, 28; 1940, 55; 1970, 105. The historian argued that productivity gains were not constant but accelerated over the 20th century. To support this, the historian could cite ______
Which choice most logically completes the text using the data above?
- A
the 1970 figure of 105.
- B
the 1910 figure of 28.
- C
the 1880 figure of 12.
- Dcheck_circle
the gain of 16 from 1880-1910, but 50 from 1940-1970—a much larger gain in less time.
Explanation
"Accelerated" requires comparing gains across periods. Choice B contrasts the early 30-year gain (16) with the later 30-year gain (50), supporting acceleration.