13. What is the main purpose of the questions in sentences 10–12?
Answer: D
The main purpose of the questions in sentences 10–12 is to provide examples of the kinds of messages the narrator and her father obtained.
The questions in sentences 10–12 illustrate the type of communications received through the ham radio, showcasing the variety of messages exchanged between amateur operators. This context emphasizes the engaging and interactive nature of their hobby.
A) To reveal the narrator's sense of isolation from family members other than her father
This option is incorrect as the questions do not indicate any feelings of isolation. Instead, they illustrate the shared experience between the narrator and her father, highlighting their connection through the radio hobby rather than isolation from others.
B) To suggest the narrator's uncertainty about whether the radio will work
This choice is also incorrect because the questions do not express any doubt about the functionality of the radio. Instead, they focus on the content of the messages being received, indicating that the radio works effectively for communication.
C) To demonstrate the knowledge of electric principles required to operate the radio
While knowledge of electrical principles is mentioned in the extract, the questions in sentences 10–12 do not address this aspect. They specifically highlight the nature of the messages received rather than the technical knowledge required to operate the radio.
D) To provide examples of the kinds of messages the narrator and her father obtained
This option is correct as the questions in sentences 10–12 serve to illustrate the types of messages they picked up, such as inquiries about loneliness, well-being, and weather. This showcases the interactive and communal aspect of ham radio communications that the narrator and her father enjoyed together.
Conclusion
The correct answer, option D, accurately reflects the function of the questions in sentences 10–12 by providing examples of the messages exchanged. All other options fail to capture the essence of the questions, which center around the types of communication received rather than themes of isolation, uncertainty, or technical knowledge. Thus, D is the only option that correctly identifies the purpose of the questions within the context of the passage.