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Difficulty: MediumRun-on Sentences and Comma Splices

Many modern architects are turning to cross-laminated timber as a sustainable alternative to steel and concrete. This engineered wood is exceptionally strong, moreover, it traps carbon dioxide rather than releasing it during production. By utilizing this material, builders can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of new high-rises.

Which of the following options best corrects the underlined portion of the passage?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. strong; moreover, itAnswer
  3. C
    strong, it
  4. D
    strong; because it

Answer

strong; moreover, it
The correct option correctly resolves the comma splice by placing a semicolon after the first independent clause, followed by the transitional adverb 'moreover' and a comma, which is the standard punctuation pattern for linking two independent clauses with a conjunctive adverb.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structure of the clauses surrounding the underlined portion.
The clause before the underline ('This engineered wood is exceptionally strong') and the clause after ('it traps carbon dioxide rather than releasing it during production') are both independent clauses.
Determining whether the clauses are independent or dependent guides the selection of appropriate punctuation and conjunctions.
2
Evaluate the grammatical relationship and transition between the two independent clauses.
Joining two independent clauses with a comma and a transitional adverb like 'moreover' creates a comma splice. A semicolon is required before the transitional adverb, followed by a comma after it, to correctly link the two complete thoughts.
A semicolon is grammatically necessary to separate two independent clauses when no coordinating conjunction (like 'and' or 'but') is used.

Key Concept

Joining independent clauses using semicolons and transitional adverbs
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Run-on Sentences and Comma Splices

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