What are “sound bites"? a short, interesting statements made by candidates that will play well in news reports
b. painful bursts of noise
c pieces of information spread by a computer virus
d none of the above

 A.

definition: a short extract from a recorded interview, chosen for its pungency or appropriateness.

a famous example of sound bites:

What are “sound bites"?

One of the most famous examples of sound bites is President John F. Kennedy's words: “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” This quote remains memorable even after more than 50 years. Compared to the 1960s, when a standard sound bite lasted 40 seconds, it is shorter now.

it teaches readers about an interesting chinese custom and causes them to determine that the minister is trying to be polite