46. The primary purpose of the passage is to
Answer: C
The primary purpose of the passage is to describe a phenomenon and provide an example.
The passage discusses the concept of "disposable culture" and illustrates it through the historical example of paper shirtfronts and other clothing parts that became popular due to their convenience and the limitations of laundry services in the nineteenth century.
A) present a problem and examine two solutions
This option is incorrect because the passage does not outline a specific problem or offer two distinct solutions. Instead, it focuses on describing a cultural shift toward disposability without delving into problem-solving scenarios.
B) contrast one approach with an alternative approach
This option is also incorrect. While the passage describes disposable culture, it does not explicitly contrast two different approaches. The focus remains on how disposable items gained popularity rather than comparing them to a differing method.
C) describe a phenomenon and provide an example
This option is correct as the passage effectively describes the phenomenon of disposable culture and provides the example of paper shirtfronts, detailing their rise in popularity and the reasons behind it.
D) argue that a common practice is ultimately impractical
This option is incorrect because the passage does not argue that disposable practices are impractical. Instead, it highlights their convenience and popularity during a specific historical period without critiquing their effectiveness.
E) challenge an interpretation of a particular event
This option is incorrect. The passage does not challenge any interpretations of historical events but rather presents information about the development of disposable culture without questioning existing narratives.
Conclusion
The correct answer, C, is definitive as it encapsulates the main intent of the passage, which is to describe the emergence of disposable culture through a specific example. All other options fail to accurately represent the passage's focus, as they either misinterpret its aim or introduce concepts that are not present in the text.