Examkin

Question

Difficulty: EasyClause Boundaries and Linking

Desert ants of the genus *Cataglyphis* navigate harsh, featureless environments using a method called path integration, which relies on an internal odometer. While foraging, the ants continuously track their direction and distance relative to the nest ______ this mental log allows them to return home in a direct line rather than retracing their outward path.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. A
    , but this
  2. ; thisAnswer
  3. C
    , this
  4. D
    this

Answer

The choice containing a semicolon followed by the pronoun 'this' is correct because it properly separates two independent clauses without creating a comma splice or a run-on sentence.
The correct option properly uses a semicolon to connect two independent clauses, which is grammatically correct and maintains the logical connection between the ants tracking their location and the resulting benefit of that tracking.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the clause structure before and after the blank.
The clause before the blank ('While foraging, the ants continuously track their direction and distance relative to the nest') is an independent clause. The clause after the blank ('this mental log allows them to return home...') is also an independent clause.
Identifying clause types is necessary to determine the required punctuation for linking them.
2
Determine valid grammatical linkers for independent clauses.
Two independent clauses must be joined using a period, a semicolon, a colon, or a comma paired with a coordinating conjunction.
This prevents grammatical errors such as comma splices and run-on sentences.
3
Evaluate the choices based on grammatical correctness and logical relationship.
A semicolon alone is a valid linker. A comma alone creates a comma splice, and no punctuation creates a run-on. Using 'but' is logically incorrect because there is no contrast.
The correct option must satisfy both punctuation rules and transition logic.

Key Concept

Clause Boundaries and Linking
Rate this question

Topics

Clause Boundaries and Linking

More questions from this topic