Earthquakes are increasingly a worrisome threat to the world's largest cities.

Question

At least half of these cities are considered at moderate or high risk of a major earthquake. Fears of the next "Big One" affect such major population centers as Tokyo, Mexico City, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Almost two-thirds of the population worldwide is projected to live in cities by 2050. These places must prepare for earthquakes. However, they also have leaders who are only elected for short periods, and may not be thinking about such long-term problems.

Another trouble is that major earthquakes can't be predicted, and might hit once in a lifetime, if that. What steps should be taken today to protect people and buildings from such a threat? Read the introduction [paragraphs 1-4].

HOW does the introduction develop the MAIN idea of the article?

A
It describes the cities where earthquakes are a serious problem and compares how those cities have reacted.

B
It outlines the growing threat of earthquakes to cities and some of the effects that this has had on city planning.

C
It summarizes the cities where earthquakes are a serious problem and how preparations have changed over time.

D
It emphasizes the growing threat of earthquakes to cities and some of the problems with finding long-term solutions.

Answer 1

The introduction develops the main idea of the article by emphasizing the growing threat of earthquakes to cities and some of the problems with finding long-term solutions. It highlights that many major cities are at risk for earthquakes, and it points out the challenges posed by short-term leadership and the unpredictability of major earthquakes. Therefore, the correct answer is:

D
It emphasizes the growing threat of earthquakes to cities and some of the problems with finding long-term solutions.