Responding to the questions one at a time.
First let's discuss the over all idea of the passage:
The passage discusses Huxley and his observation of the similarities between reptiles and birds.
It then discusses coelurosaurs to show this similarity and then discusses an exception (featherless coelurosaurs ) that has caused complications.
Some explanations for this contrast is provided.
Another alternate explanation that opposes the original premise (that feathers = similarity) is provided.
Authors perspective: with more study and understanding we can get a better idea about how close reptiles and birds are.
I've merely paraphrased here : the map above serves as a good reference point of what the passage discusses,
Let's go to question 1
1. In the passage, the author is primarily interested in:
(A) presenting possible solutions to a problem that has troubled scientists
for years.
Irrelevant: Doesn't talk about presenting "solutions" to problems (B) providing background information and possible explanations for a
curious discovery.
Maybe: Although not the best possible description of the passage - it isn't wrong! (C) answering critics of a controversial theory that is supported by a new
finding
NO: I have a problem with the word "controversial" suggests that the author thinks that the theory isn't correct (in some way) - this isn't the case(D) showing how an established idea can become too entrenched in
conventional scientific thought
No: Again the option picks up a tone / opinion that is not supported by the author / passage(E) presenting historical background to a current phenomenon
NO: What current phenomenon? Option B is the most reasonable response - sure it doesn't look too appealing, but few correct options seldom do!
Remember
1. Don't look for an answer that does exactly what you think the correct answer should do
2. Rather- go through each option looking for something incorrect in each - if you find even one point / perspective incorrect; get rid of that option
3. Look out for the author's tone / opinion - ensure that the answer option doesn't go away / against it (if the questions is within that scope).
Hope that helps!