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Difficulty: MediumAnalyzing Text Structure and Rhetorical Features

Read the following excerpt from a journalistic article about renewable energy in Uruguay:

"Uruguay has achieved a remarkable feat: in less than a decade, it transitioned its electricity grid to nearly 98% renewable sources. While global commentators frequently praise this accomplishment as a miracle, it was actually the result of calculated policy decisions, long-term regulatory stability, and heavy public-private investments. Crucially, the country did not rely on heavy subsidies. Instead, it established a competitive bidding system that guaranteed fixed prices for wind and solar energy, attracting foreign investors who sought low-risk utility projects.

However, this transition has not been entirely without friction. Critics point out that during periods of extreme drought, the heavy reliance on wind power alone cannot offset the loss of hydroelectric capacity, forcing the country to temporarily import fossil-fuel energy from neighboring countries. Consequently, the government has begun investing in battery storage technologies to mitigate these seasonal vulnerabilities. This secondary phase is essential; otherwise, the initial sustainability achievements could be undermined during climate anomalies."

Which of the following best describes the rhetorical function of the transition word "Consequently" in the second paragraph?

  1. A
    It introduces a contrasting perspective that contradicts the claims of progress made in the first paragraph.
  2. It signals a cause-and-effect relationship, introducing a policy action taken to address the seasonal energy vulnerability described.Answer
  3. C
    It provides empirical evidence demonstrating that hydroelectric power is superior to wind power.
  4. D
    It serves to restate the main thesis of the entire passage about the financial profitability of renewable energy.

Answer

The transition word signals a cause-and-effect relationship, introducing a policy action taken to address the seasonal energy vulnerability described.
The transition word 'Consequently' establishes a cause-and-effect relationship between the problem described in the previous sentence (energy vulnerability during droughts) and the solution presented in the targeted sentence (investing in battery storage). It shows that the policy action is a direct result of the seasonal energy deficit.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context preceding the target transition word.
The text states that during severe droughts, wind power alone is insufficient to offset the loss of hydroelectric power, requiring fossil-fuel imports.
This establishes the problem that creates the need for subsequent action.
2
Examine the clause introduced by the transition word.
The clause states that the government is investing in battery storage technologies.
This represents the response or consequence of the previously identified problem.
3
Evaluate the logical relationship established by the word.
The word connects the energy shortage issue directly to the storage investment as a result or effect.
This confirms that the transition functions rhetorically to establish a cause-and-effect relationship.

Key Concept

Analyzing the logical relationships and rhetorical functions established by transition words in journalistic texts.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Analyzing Text Structure and Rhetorical Features

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