Question

Effects of the Soviet Union's launching of Sputnik included all of the following EXCEPT:

a. many Americans believed that Sputnik's inferior quality revealed American superiority.
b. American schools placed stronger emphasis on math and science courses.
c. the National Aeronautics and Space Administration was created by Congress.
d. Congress supported college and post-graduate study with the National Defense Education Act.

Answer 1

The incorrect choice in the provided effects of Sputnik's launching is that it revealed American superiority; instead, it caused concern about Soviet advancements and led to significant U.S. initiatives in space technology, education, and research.

Step-by-step explanation:

The effects of the Soviet Union's launching of Sputnik included heightened fears of Soviet technology surpassing American capabilities, substantial changes in American education and research policies, and the establishment of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Among the choices provided, the only incorrect effect was that 'many Americans believed that Sputnik's inferior quality revealed American superiority.' In fact, the launching of Sputnik caused panic and concern in the United States, as it highlighted the Soviet's advanced position in the space race and the potential military implications of their technology. In response, the U.S. government and Congress took several actions including emphasizing math and science in American schools, creating NASA, and supporting higher education through measures like the National Defense Education Act.