What are the six steps in performing research

What is meant by “eternally burning black pipes”? what is this implying about the personality of the firemen?

Which best explains this excerpt’s purpose in the novel’s plot structure? the excerpt creates conflict between characters as part of the rising action. the excerpt provides background information on a character as part of the exposition. the excerpt returns a character to equilibrium as part of the falling action. the excerpt is the point of greatest tension and acts as the climax.

Does wealth play a part in politics? why or why not?