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Difficulty: Very hardCommas with Nonessential and Parenthetical Elements

In 1915, Albert Einstein published his theory of general relativity, which revolutionized modern physics. The field of study that he pioneered has since led to the discovery of black holes and gravitational waves. However, the mathematician, who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry, is rarely mentioned in history textbooks.

Which of the following choices best punctuates the underlined portion of the sentence?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. mathematician who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry isAnswer
  3. C
    mathematician who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry, is
  4. D
    mathematician; who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry, is

Answer

mathematician who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry is
The correct choice omits all punctuation around the relative clause 'who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry' because this clause is restrictive (essential to specifying which mathematician is being discussed). Standard grammar rules dictate that essential relative clauses should not be separated from their referent with commas.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine whether the relative clause 'who assisted Einstein with the complex geometry' is essential (restrictive) or nonessential (nonrestrictive) to the meaning of the sentence.
The clause is restrictive because it identifies which specific mathematician is being discussed. Without it, the sentence 'However, the mathematician is rarely mentioned' would be incomplete or ambiguous.
Essential information must not be set off by commas.
2
Evaluate the punctuation options for the clause.
The correct punctuation is no punctuation at all, as any commas or semicolons would incorrectly disrupt the relationship between the subject and its modifying clause or the main verb.
Commas should not separate a restrictive clause from its referent, and a semicolon cannot be used to separate a dependent clause from an independent clause.

Key Concept

Distinguishing between restrictive and nonrestrictive relative clauses to determine correct comma usage.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Commas with Nonessential and Parenthetical Elements

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