Question

Difficulty: MediumParagraph-Level Transitions

The following paragraphs are from an essay about the discovery of a new pigment. To make the essay flow most logically, in what order should the paragraphs be placed?

  1. 1In 2009, chemist Mas Subramanian and his team at Oregon State University were researching materials for electronics applications. They mixed black manganese oxide with other elements and heated the mixture to nearly 2,000F2,000^\circ\text{F} in a furnace. To their surprise, a student retrieved a brilliant, intense blue compound from the heat.
  2. 2This serendipitous creation, named YInMn Blue after its constituent elements, was the first new inorganic blue pigment discovered in more than two hundred years. Historically, finding a stable, non-toxic blue pigment had been difficult; cobalt blue is toxic, and ultramarine is prone to fading. YInMn Blue offered a highly durable, safe, and heat-reflecting alternative.
  3. 3Recognizing these unique qualities, paint manufacturers quickly licensed the pigment for commercial use. Today, the new blue is not only prized by artists for its vibrant hue but is also utilized in energy-saving roof coatings to reflect infrared light and keep buildings cool.

Answer

The correct order begins with the paragraph introducing the initial experiment, followed by the paragraph defining the pigment YInMn Blue and its properties, and concludes with the paragraph detailing its commercial applications.
The correct order transitions from the initial discovery of the compound in the laboratory, to the naming and characterization of the pigment, and finally to its practical commercial applications. This creates a clear chronological and logical progression.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the introductory paragraph.
The paragraph describing the 2009 experiment at Oregon State University functions as the introduction because it does not rely on any preceding context and establishes the event that starts the narrative.
A logical passage must establish the context and primary subject before discussing subsequent developments or applications.
2
Determine the connection to the next paragraph using transitional pronouns.
The paragraph starting with 'This serendipitous creation' logically follows the experiment description, as 'creation' refers directly to the blue compound pulled from the furnace.
Demonstrative pronouns like 'this' require a clear referent in the immediately preceding sentence or paragraph to maintain cohesion.
3
Connect the final paragraph based on parallel concepts.
The paragraph beginning with 'Recognizing these unique qualities' must follow the properties paragraph, as it references the durability, safety, and heat-reflecting characteristics described at the end of the properties paragraph.
Transitions that refer to group characteristics or qualities must follow the specific list or description of those qualities.

Key Concept

Establishing logical paragraph transitions by identifying chronological sequences, referential pronouns, and parallel conceptual links.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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