What is the main topic of this passage?
TEXT 3
What comes to mind when you hear the word Mercury: the planet, a silvery liquid metal, or an ancient Roman messenger god? The planet, as well as the metal, are named after the Roman god.
In comparison to our current knowledge, the Romans knew very little about astronomy. However, they were great observers of the heavens, and the closer things got to Earth, the more the Romans were aware of the appearance and movements of these things in the sky.
Mercury, because it moves faster than the other planets, was named after the Roman gods' swift messenger, who was commonly represented with wings on his helmet and sandals. We know, of course, that Mercury moves faster not because it is closer to Earth, but because it is closer to the sun.
But when did this ancient Roman god become associated with the liquid metal used in thermometers? Quicksilver is another name for mercury. The word "quick" has two meanings: "life" and "rapid." At room temperature, quicksilver creates gleaming liquid drops and glides with such ease that it appears to be alive. Thus, it is self-evident how the metal got its name.
(Adapted from Saddleback Educational Publishing, 2002)
A. Composite of Mercury
B. The Original Name of Mercury
C. The Characteristics of Mercury
D. Description of the Planet Mercury
Answer (2)
The main topic of the passage revolves around the various aspects associated with the word 'Mercury.' Here are the points covered in the passage that help in determining its main topic:
Roman Mythology : The passage begins by discussing the Roman messenger god, Mercury, illustrating why both the planet and the element were named after this deity. This introduces the connection between Roman mythology and the name 'Mercury.'
Astronomy : It explains the planet Mercury's association with the Roman god due to its swift movement across the sky, akin to the god's role as a swift messenger. The passage further clarifies that Mercury's speed is due to its proximity to the Sun, not Earth, contrasting ancient and current astronomical knowledge.
Chemistry : The passage details how 'Quicksilver,' another name for the metal mercury, derived its name from its properties, notably its appearance and movement at room temperature, which make it seem 'alive.'
Overall, the passage compares and connects the historical understanding and naming of Mercury in Roman mythology, its representation as a planet, and its characteristics as a metal. Thus, the main topic can be best described as a 'Composite of Mercury.'
Given the choices, the most appropriate option that encapsulates the main ideas discussed is:
Option A: Composite of Mercury
This choice involves exploring the different contexts in which 'Mercury' appears and how they are interrelated.
The passage discusses the various aspects of 'Mercury,' including its ties to Roman mythology, its properties as a planet, and its characteristics as a liquid metal. These connections present a comprehensive understanding of the term 'Mercury.' The best multiple-choice option is A: Composite of Mercury.
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