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Difficulty: Very hardSubordination and Coordination

For decades, astrophysicists have debated the overall geometry of the cosmos. Although the standard cosmological model suggests that the universe is flat; however, researchers continue to test alternative models because even a tiny degree of curvature would fundamentally alter our calculations regarding its ultimate fate.

Which choice best completes the sentence, establishing a clear and grammatically correct relationship between the ideas?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. Although the standard cosmological model suggests that the universe is flat, researchers continue to testAnswer
  3. C
    The standard cosmological model suggests that the universe is flat, however, researchers continue to test
  4. D
    Although the standard cosmological model suggests that the universe is flat, but researchers continue to test

Answer

The option that correctly subordinates the first clause using 'Although' followed by a comma to introduce the main clause: 'Although the standard cosmological model suggests that the universe is flat, researchers continue to test'.
The correct option correctly uses the subordinating conjunction 'Although' to set up a dependent clause, which is separated from the independent main clause by a comma. This avoids coordination conflict and punctuation errors.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structure of the two clauses in the sentence.
The first clause is 'Although the standard cosmological model suggests that the universe is flat' and the second is 'researchers continue to test alternative models...'
To determine whether subordination, coordination, or both are appropriate.
2
Analyze the logical relationship between the two clauses.
The relationship is one of contrast (the standard theory says it is flat, but researchers still test alternative models).
To choose the correct transition or conjunction.
3
Evaluate the options for grammatical correctness and punctuation.
The original text uses both 'Although' and 'however' with a semicolon, which is redundant and incorrectly punctuated. The option using 'however' with a comma is a comma splice. The option using 'Although' and 'but' creates a double conjunction. The option using 'Although' with a comma correctly subordinates the first clause.
To eliminate grammatically incorrect options and select the correct one.

Key Concept

Subordination and Coordination
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Topics

Subordination and Coordination

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