Hi!!

This question took me 4mins 54 sec to understand and solve. For me it was a difficult question

So, the argument/passage talks says that, composition and density of the atmosphere and the altitude of the aurora determine the possible light emissions. And then the passage goes on to describe this very first line in detail at various altitudes and the changes experienced.

Note: I understood this later, I spent too much time understanding the argument but, a framework/structure as to what the author is saying would have been enough to solve the question.

As to the two boldfaced lines do not contradict each other. The second is not the conclusion of the whole argument.

In the argument above, the two portions in boldface play which of the following roles?

(A) The first states the conclusion of the argument as a whole; the second provides support for that conclusion.- The first statement is not the conclusion. OUT
(B) The first provides support for the conclusion of the argument as a whole; the second provides evidence that supports an objection to that conclusion.--The second does not contradicts an objection to the conclusion rather it supports the conclusion .
(C) The first provides support for an intermediate conclusion that supports a further conclusion stated in the argument; the second states that intermediate conclusion.- Correct. Because the first and second statement are in same direction this could be a possible answer.
(D) The first serves as an intermediate conclusion that supports a further conclusion stated in the argument; the second states the position that the argument as a whole opposes.-The first is not the intermidaite conclusion and the second does not oppose.- OUT
(E) The first states the position that the argument as a whole opposes; the second supports the conclusion of the argument.- First statement does not oppose.- OUT

Once you confidently negate the other statement, the only logical statement left is C.

IMO C

Do let me know if the above reasoning is wrong! I'd be happy to hear!