Washing clothes was a day-long process in the 19th century. And the two hours you have to spend at the laundromat makes you angry. For the answer and explanation, click here.

Explanation:

Situation: The quality of washing machines produced by Factory A versus the quality of washing machines produced by Factory B is discussed and a prediction is made based on previous results.

Reasoning: We need to find a statement that supports the continuation of the discussed trend in quality.

(A) Correct: This option explains at least one of the reasons behind defects in the washing machines produced by Factory B. This statement further strengthens the probability that the defects of washing machines made by Factory B will continue to be more than that of Factory A.

(B) Incorrect: This option mentions the internal quality mechanism of Factory A; however, its effect on the output of factory B cannot be inferred from the information. From this we know that Factory A produces less defective machines and that the factory is checked more frequently for quality. This strengthens the argument, but not as powerfully as does choice A.

(C) Incorrect: This option mentions the human capital aspect of Factory A; however, its effect on the output of Factory B cannot be inferred. Again, this strengthens the argument, but not to the extent that choice A does.

(D) Incorrect: The idea of more payment for quality testing concerns the pricing policy of Factory B. It is irrelevant to the defects in washing machines produced by Factory B.

(E) Incorrect: The comparative production of washing machines is not relevant to the defects in machines produced by Factory B.