SAT Question b4887dae: Answer & Explanation

Mathematician Claude Shannon is widely regarded as a foundational figure in information theory. His most important paper, “A Mathematical Theory of Communication,” published in 1948 when he was employed at Bell Labs, utilized a concept called a “binary digit” (shortened to “bit”) to measure the amount of information in any signal and determine the fastest rate at which information could be transmitted while still being reliably decipherable. Robert Gallagher, one of Shannon’s colleagues, said that the bit was “[Shannon’s] discovery, and from it the whole communications revolution has sprung.”

101

Difficulty:Medium

Which choice best describes the overall structure of the text?

It presents a theoretical concept, illustrates how the name of the concept has changed, and shows how the name has entered common usage.

It introduces a respected researcher, describes an aspect of his work, and suggests why the work is historically significant.

It names the company where an important mathematician worked, details the mathematician’s career at the company, and provides an example of the recognition he received there.

It mentions a paper, offers a summary of the paper’s findings, and presents a researcher’s commentary on the paper.

SAT Question b4887dae: Text Structure And Purpose answer and explanation

Explanation

Why the other choices are wrong