Question

In the 1950s, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, or NACA for short, formed a group of women to calculate rigorous mathematical computations. There was, however, one large problem. The West Area Computing Unit was made entirely of African American women, and these genius minds behind the programs that were driving the space program were not allowed to use the same restrooms or eat in the same cafeteria as their white counterparts. It wasn't until 1958 that NACA became NASA and segregation at the agency was ended.

Which of the following statements best summarizes the central idea of the passage?

The West Computers were angry that they could not have a more well-regarded position because they were women.
The West Computers were given the same treatment as other employees in 1958.
The West Computers were instrumental in mathematical breakthroughs that boosted the space program but were treated differently from white employees.
The West Computers were respected because they were responsible for creating invaluable mathematical formulas.

Answer 1

C

Step-by-step explanation:

got it correct <333!!

Answer 2

The central idea of the passage is that the West Computers, a group of African American women, played a crucial role in making mathematical breakthroughs that greatly contributed to the space program. Despite their significant contributions, they were treated differently from their white counterparts until 1958 when NACA became NASA and segregation was ended.

Step-by-step explanation:

The passage highlights the discrimination faced by the West Computers, as they were not allowed to use the same restrooms or eat in the same cafeteria as their white colleagues. This segregation was a significant obstacle for these talented women who were responsible for creating invaluable mathematical formulas. The passage emphasizes their contributions to the space program and the injustice they experienced.

The central idea can be summarized as follows:

The West Computers were instrumental in mathematical breakthroughs that boosted the space program but were treated differently from white employees.