What is a cannon?

• A. A large musical instrument
• B. A ceremonial bell
• C. A type of cannonball
• D. A big gun, especially one mounted on a base or wheels

Answer: (D)

A cannon is a heavy artillery piece designed to launch a projectile using an explosive propellant. The best description—“a big gun, especially one mounted on a base or wheels”—captures both its size and how it’s typically used, with a carriage or base that allows aiming and movement.

The other options describe things that aren’t the weapon itself: a large musical instrument isn’t how a cannon functions; a ceremonial bell serves a different purpose entirely; and a cannonball is the projectile fired by a cannon, not the weapon. So focus on the gun that fires—that’s what a cannon is.