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Difficulty: EasyRun-on Sentences and Comma Splices

Many geologists study the movement of tectonic plates to predict earthquakes. These plates shift constantly, however, predicting the exact time of an eruption or quake remains extremely difficult. For this reason, scientists continue to develop more sensitive monitoring equipment.

Which of the following options is the best replacement for the underlined portion of the passage?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. These plates shift constantly; however, predictingAnswer
  3. C
    These plates shift constantly; because predicting
  4. D
    These plates shift constantly, predicting

Answer

The option that uses a semicolon before 'however' and a comma after it is correct because it properly connects two independent clauses without creating a run-on sentence or comma splice.
The correct choice properly connects two independent clauses by placing a semicolon before the conjunctive adverb 'however' and a comma after it, resolving the comma splice while maintaining the logical relationship of contrast.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the grammatical structure of the clauses on both sides of the underlined transition.
The clause 'These plates shift constantly' is independent. The clause starting with 'predicting...' is also independent because the gerund phrase 'predicting the exact time of an eruption or quake' acts as the subject of the verb 'remains'.
Understanding clause types is necessary to determine the required punctuation for joining them.
2
Evaluate the punctuation options to connect the two independent clauses.
A semicolon must be used to separate the two independent clauses when a conjunctive adverb like 'however' is used to show contrast. A comma alone results in a comma splice.
This ensures the sentence is grammatically complete and avoids run-on or comma splice errors.

Key Concept

Identifying and correcting comma splices and run-on sentences using appropriate punctuation and conjunctions.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Run-on Sentences and Comma Splices

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