Question

select the passage that has a more biting tone. when edna entered the dining room one evening, an unusually animated conversation seemed to be going on. several persons were talking at once. they were always engaged in some little discussion or trivial dispute in whispering voices. though catherines supporting opinion was frequently called for, she was never able to give it because she hadnt heard a word of the conversation. adapted from kate chopin, the awakening and jane austen, northanger abbey

Explanation:

The first passage about Edna entering the dining - room is a neutral description of a social scene. The second passage, with the mention of "little discussion" or "trivial dispute" and Catherine not being able to contribute as she hadn't heard, has a more sarcastic and biting tone, subtly criticizing the nature of the conversations and the situation of Catherine.

Answer:

The second passage ("They were always engaged in some little discussion or trivial dispute in whispering voices. Though Catherine's supporting opinion was frequently called for, she was never able to give it because she hadn't heard a word of the conversation.")