Final answer:
Both the first and second Industrial Revolutions led to the rise of the middle class and benefited from improvements in transportation like canals and railroads. The first revolution was powered by steam and water, while the second utilized electrical power.
Step-by-step explanation:
Both the first and second Industrial Revolutions were characterized by several commonalities, despite occurring at different times with different prevailing technologies.
The statement that they 'caused the rise of the middle class' is true for both the first and second Industrial Revolutions. During these periods, advancements in technology, manufacturing, and transportation led to the proliferation of new industries and economic opportunities. This enabled a new social class to emerge: the middle class, consisting of business owners, factory managers, and other professionals who capitalized on the new economic landscape.
It is incorrect that they both 'relied on electrical power', as the first Industrial Revolution was primarily powered by steam and water before electricity became a major source of power in the second Industrial Revolution.
However, the statement that they 'benefited from canals and railroads' is correct. In both Industrial Revolutions, transportation advancements played a crucial role. Canals were instrumental during the first Industrial Revolution, and railroads expanded in importance during both, significantly enhancing the transportation of goods and raw materials and catalyzing further economic growth.