Final answer:
The correct answer is A) Santoor, which is a trapezoidal hammered zither important to Persian classical music and played with small mallets.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Iranian instrument referred to in the question is a trapezoidal hammered zither called a Santoor. Generally played with small mallets, the Santoor has strings stretched over a hollow box and produces a distinct, resonant sound that is integral to Persian classical music. This instrument has various cousins in other cultures, like the hammer dulcimer in the United States.
In comparison to the other options provided, the Tar is a plucked string instrument, the Ney is a type of reed flute, and the Setar is a small lute. It’s important to note that each of these instruments has a unique place in Iranian music and adds to the rich tapestry of Persian sound.