Correct answer: A. It made iron production cheaper and possible on a larger scale
Explanation: Direct answer: Option A. Coke, a processed form of coal with fewer impurities and strong heating ability, helped ironmakers produce iron more efficiently than dependence on charcoal alone. The reasoning is: coke can provide intense heat, supports larger furnaces, and allows greater and more regular iron output; increased iron supply then supported machines, tools, bridges, railways, and other industrial construction. Option A is correct because coke helped make iron production cheaper and possible on a larger scale, although the exact cost depended on conditions. Option B is wrong because coke did not close the textile industry; industrial changes generally supported many industries. Option C is wrong because iron and fuel developments supported steam technology rather than making it useless. Option D is wrong because coke did not determine when colonies became independent. Memory cue: coke means stronger industrial heat, more iron, and larger-scale machinery and railways.