Which statement best summarizes the excerpt?
A) Scientists at the time were skeptical of the idea that nuclear fission could be used to build weapons.
B) Scientists in Europe succeeded in building the atomic bomb and asked the United States to fund further research.
C) The United States felt it was important to build an atomic bomb to use during World War II.
D) The United States started to build an atomic bomb because scientists were afraid the Germans would do it first.
The correct answer is D) The United States started to build an atomic bomb because scientists were afraid the Germans would do it first.
Explanation: This statement captures the urgency and motivation behind the U.S. atomic bomb project during World War II, reflecting the fear of Nazi Germany developing nuclear weapons before the Allies could. It emphasizes a direct threat that propelled the United States into action regarding atomic research and development.
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