Question

part a: throughout the passage, the author uses statistics to: * 5 points
commend the natural resources defense councils efforts.
illustrate the severity of a problem that exists in the united states.
question the validity of research regarding hunger in the united states.
demonstrate that americans have conflicting opinions regarding food waste.

Explanation:

Statistics are often used to provide evidence about the extent or severity of an issue. In the context of a passage likely dealing with a social - relevant problem (such as food - related issues in the US), statistics would be used to show how serious the problem is. There is no indication that the statistics are used to commend an organization, question research validity, or show conflicting opinions.

Answer:

B. Illustrate the severity of a problem that exists in the United States.