Astronomers analyzing radio signals from distant pulsars must account for interstellar dispersion, which delays lower-frequency signals more than higher-frequency ones. To measure this delay accurately, scientists compare arrival times across multiple frequencies, consequently, they can calculate the electron density of the intervening space. This measurement helps researchers map the distribution of matter throughout our galaxy.
Which choice produces a grammatically correct sentence that accurately connects the independent clauses in the underlined portion?
- ANO CHANGE
- frequencies; consequently, theyAnswer
- Cfrequencies; because they
- Dfrequencies, which
Answer
The option offering 'frequencies; consequently, they' is correct because it properly separates two independent clauses using a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb 'consequently'.
The correct answer properly repairs the comma splice. The sentence contains two complete independent clauses ('scientists compare arrival times across multiple frequencies' and 'they can calculate the electron density of the intervening space'). Connecting them requires a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb 'consequently', followed by a comma.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Run-on Sentences and Comma Splices