Question

Hawthorne . . . marveled that this mysterious substance called electricity could transmit signals across thousands of miles and make INERT machines spring suddenly to life.

What is the meaning of the underlined term?
A. useless
B. modern
C. innovative
D. inactive

Answer 1

it is inactive

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

Answer: D. Inactive

Explanation: INERT as used in t he has excerpt means inactive. It describes anything, that is void of activity that is, it indicates absence of action, indisposition to activity, or cessation of activity.

In his marvel, Hawthorne contemplates the capability of electricity as a form of energy to be applied to once active machines to make them functioning again and put to use.