Question 51·Hard·Rhetorical Synthesis
While researching a topic, a student has taken the following notes:
- Voyager 2 launched in 1977.
- It is the only spacecraft to have visited Uranus and Neptune.
- In 2018, Voyager 2 crossed the heliopause, entering interstellar space.
- The probe still transmits data, which is received by 70-meter antennas on Earth.
- Scientists cite the mission as proof of the longevity and reach of human-made spacecraft.
The student wants to make and support a generalization that Voyager 2 demonstrates the longevity and reach of human-made spacecraft. Which choice most effectively uses relevant information from the notes to accomplish this goal?
For rhetorical synthesis questions, restate the goal in your own words (here: the sentence must show both longevity and reach). Then verify that each clause in the choice is directly supported by a note and that both parts of the generalization are backed by concrete evidence (not just asserted).
Hints
Use the last bullet
One note already provides the broad conclusion scientists draw about the mission. Look for an option that restates that conclusion.
Make sure the option covers both parts
The best choice should address longevity and reach, not just one of them.
Check that every detail is in the notes
If an option doesn’t provide note-based support for one part of the claim (or leans on vague wording), it’s likely not the best synthesis.
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify the required generalization
The sentence must claim that Voyager 2 demonstrates both the longevity and the reach of human-made spacecraft.
Match each idea to specific notes
Longevity is supported by “launched in 1977” and “still transmits data.” Reach is supported by visiting Uranus and Neptune and crossing the heliopause into interstellar space.
Check each option for full, note-based support
Prefer the choice that (1) states both longevity and reach and (2) backs up both parts with concrete facts from the notes, not just a restatement or a one-sided set of details.
Select the most effective synthesis
The option that best supports both longevity and reach using multiple relevant notes is: "Voyager 2 demonstrates the longevity and reach of human-made spacecraft: launched in 1977, it visited Uranus and Neptune and still transmits data from beyond the heliopause."