Question

In "As U.S. Demands Nuclear Disarmament, It Moves to Expand Its Own Arsenal," the author argues that

producing more nuclear "pits" is not necessary to maintain existing warheads. Why is this claim based on sound
reasoning?
As U.S. Demands Nuclear Disarmament, It Moves to Expand Its Own Arsenal
A. It is supported by the high cost of building new pits.

B. It is supported by the fact that President Trump ordered the new pits, and he wants to increase, not
maintain, the number of warheads.
C. It is supported by a study proving that the existing pits have not degraded.
D. It is supported by the fact that the new pits were ordered just moments after President Trump
announced a meeting with Kim Jong-un.

Answer 1

Producing more nuclear 'pits' is not necessary to maintain existing warheads, and this claim is based on sound reasoning supported by the high cost of building new pits, a study proving the existing pits have not degraded, and the fact that President Trump ordered the new pits to increase the number of warheads.

Step-by-step explanation:

The claim that producing more nuclear 'pits' is not necessary to maintain existing warheads is based on sound reasoning because:

1. It is supported by the high cost of building new pits. Building new pits for warheads is expensive, and it would be more cost-effective to maintain and refurbish existing warheads.
2. It is supported by a study proving that the existing pits have not degraded. If the existing pits are still in good condition and functioning properly, there is no need to produce more.
3. It is supported by the fact that President Trump ordered the new pits, and he wants to increase, not maintain, the number of warheads. The fact that President Trump ordered new pits suggests a desire to expand the arsenal, rather than simply maintain it.