Development in which of the following led to the rise of the Second Industrial Revolution and the creation of skyscrapers and other massive buildings and structures?

The rise of the Second Industrial Revolution was significantly influenced by developments in steel production. Unlike iron, which had limitations in strength and flexibility, steel offered enhanced durability and was much lighter. The Bessemer process, developed in the 1850s, allowed for the mass production of steel, which revolutionized construction practices.

This availability of strong steel made it possible to design and build much taller structures. Skyscrapers, characterized by their height and innovative steel framework, became feasible during this period due to the strength and reliability of steel. The ability to construct buildings that were not only taller but also structurally sound transformed urban landscapes, enabling cities to expand vertically and optimize limited land space.

While gasoline-powered machines and hydroelectric power contributed to industrial advancement, they did not play as direct a role in the architectural developments of skyscrapers. Iron, while useful historically in construction, did not provide the same level of performance or possibilities as steel did during the Second Industrial Revolution. Thus, the development of steel was the key factor that facilitated the rise of skyscrapers and other massive structures.