Based on "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement,” which statement best describes why Edison succeeded in inventing a usable lightbulb?

He was highly educated in engineering, physics, and mechanics.
He was a talented inventor who naturally knew how to build things.
He was very determined and persistent in overcoming obstacles.
He was inspired and challenged by his mother’s high expectations.

He was very determined and persistent in overcoming obstacles.

Based on the information provided in "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement," the statement that best describes why Edison succeeded in inventing a usable lightbulb is that he was very determined and persistent in overcoming obstacles.

To determine the best statement that describes why Thomas Edison succeeded in inventing a usable lightbulb, we need to analyze the given options in the context of "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement."

1. He was highly educated in engineering, physics, and mechanics.
This statement suggests that Edison's success was primarily due to his extensive education. However, "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement" does not provide specific information about Edison's formal education in engineering, physics, or mechanics. Therefore, while education may have played a role in his success, it is not explicitly mentioned or emphasized in the given source.

2. He was a talented inventor who naturally knew how to build things.
This statement suggests that Edison's innate talent and natural abilities allowed him to invent the lightbulb successfully. However, "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement" does not extensively discuss Edison's natural talent or innate abilities as the sole reason for his success. Therefore, although Edison might have had natural abilities, this statement does not align with the given source.

3. He was very determined and persistent in overcoming obstacles.
This statement suggests that Edison's determination and persistence were vital factors in his success. "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement" portrays Edison as someone fiercely committed to overcoming challenges and obstacles. It highlights his tireless experimentation and countless attempts to improve the lightbulb. Therefore, this statement aligns well with the given source and provides a reasonable explanation for his success.

4. He was inspired and challenged by his mother’s high expectations.
This statement suggests that Edison's mother's expectations inspired and challenged him, leading to his success. However, while the influence of Edison's mother is acknowledged in "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement," it does not specifically state that her high expectations were a primary factor in his ability to invent the lightbulb.

Based on the information provided in "Thomas Edison: The Master of Improvement," the statement that best describes why Edison succeeded in inventing a usable lightbulb is:
"He was very determined and persistent in overcoming obstacles."