Question

which transition word or phrase should be added to the beginning of sentence 17? \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) a. as a result, \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) b. in this way, \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) c. therefore, \\(\boldsymbol{\circ}\\) d. however, \\(\\) the tower began in 1173, it took nearly 800 years for the process to be completed. \\(\\) (4) the original architect of the tower is presumed to be bonanno pisano. (5) it was originally meant to be a bell lower for a cathedral. (6) many cathedrals were built in europe around this time. (7) it was built with limestone and lime mortar, which has helped the tower to remain standing despite its tilt. \\(\\) (8) in the first few years of its construction, the tower actually stood upright. (9) then the construction of the third floor was completed. (10) soon, the tower began to lean slightly. (11) the towers base was made of clay made this happen. (12) this base was not strong enough to hold the weight of the tower and hence, the tower began to lean to one side. (13) after this, the construction of the tower was stopped for a century. (14) it was resumed again in 1272 by giovanni di simone. (15) over the construction of the tower was stopped and started several times. (16) attempts were made to fix the towers tilt, even mussolini attempted to fix it in 1934. (17) they were all unsuccessful. (18) finally, in the 20th century, italy decided to preserve the tower the way it is. (19) measures were taken to ensure that the tower did not topple over, while at the same time retaining its characteristic tilt.

Explanation:

Sentence 17 states previous attempts to fix the tilt failed, and sentence 18 introduces a successful, final 20th-century preservation effort. A contrast transition is needed to show the shift from failed attempts to a new, successful initiative. "However" is the only option that creates this logical contrast.

Answer:

D. However,