Question

Which of the following is the best example of a functional modification?

a) Campbell's puts more of a higher-grade chicken in its classic chicken noodle soup.
b) A smoke alarm is modified to be more sensitive to smoke at farther distances.
c) Motorola uses a battery that allows its cell phones to charge back up more quickly.
d) The manufacturer of the primer and sealer, Kilz, introduces an odorless variety.
e) Friskies changes the ingredients in its cat food to a taste that is preferred by most cats.

Answer 1

The best functional modification is a smoke alarm being made more sensitive to smoke at farther distances because it directly enhances the essential function of the product.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best example of a functional modification among the provided options is b) A smoke alarm is modified to be more sensitive to smoke at farther distances. A functional modification refers to changes made to improve the performance, utility, or effectiveness of a product. This modification directly enhances the product's primary function, which is to detect smoke and warn of potential fire hazards. Such changes aim to increase efficiency or add new capabilities that improve the user's experience or safety.

In contrast, the other options are considered modifications, but they may be more related to improving taste, nutritional content, or convenience rather than the core function of the product. For instance, option a) involves improving the quality of an ingredient, option c) focuses on battery performance, d) is about reducing an undesirable characteristic (odor), and e) changes the product to better meet consumer preferences in taste.

Answer 2

The best example of a functional modification is (b) A smoke alarm is modified to be more sensitive to smoke at farther distances.

Step-by-step explanation:

Functional modification involves altering the performance or capabilities of a product. In the case of option (b), modifying a smoke alarm to be more sensitive to smoke at greater distances is a clear example. This modification enhances the device's functional performance by increasing its ability to detect smoke early, improving safety.

In contrast, options (a), (c), (d), and (e) involve changes related to quality, efficiency, or preferences rather than a fundamental modification of the product's function. Therefore, the most fitting example of functional modification is the adjustment made to the smoke alarm.

Option B is the answer.