What has enabled Texas manufacturers to help the state's economy become more productive?

A. environmentally friendly techniques
B. new computer technology***
C. new labor practices
D. population increases

How has the oil industry in Houston changed over time?

A. It is less diversified than it was 20 years ago.
B. It is now based on oil drilling rather than manufacturing.
C. It no longer converts crude oil into petrochemicals.
D. It now employs more white-collar workers.***

Which physical characteristic of Texas had the greatest impact upon its settlement? Select all that apply (3).

A. the land's suitability for farming or ranching***
B. the proximity to missions and military establishments***
C. the presence of oil and natural gas***
D. the proximity to sources of water

I know that 1 is correct, but I don't know about the other ones.

The physical characteristics of Texas that had the greatest impact upon its settlement are:

A. the land's suitability for farming or ranching
B. the proximity to missions and military establishments
D. the proximity to sources of water

To answer the first question about what has enabled Texas manufacturers to help the state's economy become more productive, we need to consider the options A, B, C, and D.

A. Environmentally friendly techniques: While environmentally friendly techniques are important for sustainable development and reducing pollution, they may not directly result in increased productivity for manufacturers.

B. New computer technology: This option is likely to have a significant impact on productivity in the manufacturing sector as it allows for automation, improved efficiency, and better data management.

C. New labor practices: While new labor practices can improve productivity, without further context, it is difficult to determine the specific impact on Texas manufacturers.

D. Population increases: Population increases can lead to increased consumer demand and a larger labor force, which can benefit manufacturers by creating a larger market and greater availability of skilled workers.

Based on these considerations, the most likely answer is B. New computer technology, as it has the potential to significantly boost productivity in the manufacturing sector.

Moving on to the second question about changes in the oil industry in Houston over time, we need to evaluate the options A, B, C, and D.

A. It is less diversified than it was 20 years ago: This option suggests that the oil industry in Houston has become less varied or specialized over time. However, without additional information, it is hard to validate this claim.

B. It is now based on oil drilling rather than manufacturing: This option implies a shift from oil-related manufacturing to focusing on oil drilling. This shift aligns with Houston's reputation as an energy hub.

C. It no longer converts crude oil into petrochemicals: This option suggests a change in the oil industry's production and processing practices, potentially indicating a decreased emphasis on petrochemical production. However, without further information, we cannot confirm this.

D. It now employs more white-collar workers: This option indicates a shift toward higher-skilled, office-based jobs within the oil industry. Such a transition is possible due to technological advancements and increased automation.

Considering these options, the most plausible answer would be D. It now employs more white-collar workers, as it aligns with the overall trend of increasing automation and technological sophistication in the industry.

Lastly, we address the third question regarding the physical characteristics of Texas that had the greatest impact upon its settlement.

A. The land's suitability for farming or ranching: This factor played a significant role in attracting settlers who were engaged in agriculture and ranching practices. It provided essential resources such as fertile soil and grazing land.

B. The proximity to missions and military establishments: Proximity to missions and military establishments could have influenced settlement patterns as settlers might have been attracted to the protection and support provided by these institutions.

C. The presence of oil and natural gas: While the presence of oil and natural gas resources in Texas has had a major impact on the state's economy, it did not directly affect the initial settlement patterns. Oil exploration and extraction came later.

D. The proximity to sources of water: This factor played a crucial role in settlement as water is vital for survival and agriculture. The availability of water sources like rivers, streams, and underground aquifers likely influenced settlers' choices.

Thus, the physical characteristics of Texas that had the greatest impact upon its settlement are A. the land's suitability for farming or ranching, B. the proximity to missions and military establishments, and D. the proximity to sources of water.