Answer the following questions. Which statement from the passage best shows what led the Montgolfier brothers to create a hot-air balloon? A. Their father owned a factory that manufactured paper. B. However, they were not happy being papermakers. C. From this experiment, they learned that smoke is lighter than air. D. Something that is denser than its surroundings will sink.

The statement that best shows what led the Montgolfier brothers to create a hot-air balloon is: "From this experiment, they learned that smoke is lighter than air." This realization sparked their curiosity and experimental spirit, ultimately leading to the invention of their famous hot-air balloon. In the world of science and invention, curiosity is often the first spark that ignites innovation. The Montgolfier brothers were inspired by the properties of gases and their experiments with smoke, which illustrates how a simple observation can lead to groundbreaking discoveries. Their journey from papermakers to aviation pioneers shows that following your interests can lead you down unexpected paths!