Question

Which statement best characterizes an economic impact of smartphone development?(1 point)

Smartphone development is eliminating mining jobs in many parts of the world.

The mining of rare-earth elements is currently centered in China, which poses an economic risk to other countries.

The production of smartphones is inexpensive and does not have a far-reaching economic impact.

The mining of rare-earth elements is currently centered in the U.S., giving the country an economic advantage in the global marketplace.

Answer 1

The correct choice is:

"The mining of rare-earth elements is currently centered in China, which poses an economic risk to other countries."

Reason: Smartphones increase demand for rare-earth elements and China currently dominates their extraction and processing, creating supply-chain and economic vulnerabilities for other nations.