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Difficulty: MediumTransitions: Chronology and Sequence

The following sentences describe the geological process of sinkhole formation. Arrange the sentences in the correct chronological and logical sequence to form a coherent paragraph.

  1. 1Rainwater absorbs carbon dioxide as it falls through the atmosphere and soil, turning mildly acidic.
  2. 2This acidic water then percolates downward into the subterranean bedrock, slowly dissolving soluble rocks like limestone over thousands of years.
  3. 3Eventually, the underground cavities grow so large that the overlying soil and rock can no longer support their own weight.
  4. 4Consequently, the surface suddenly collapses inward, creating a characteristic depression known as a sinkhole.

Answer

The correct sequence of the sentences is: first, rainwater absorbs carbon dioxide and becomes acidic; second, this acidic water percolates downward and dissolves bedrock; third, underground cavities grow too large to support the surface; and fourth, the surface collapses to create a sinkhole.
The correct order follows the natural physical progression of sinkhole formation: first, rainwater becomes acidic; second, that specific acidic water percolates and dissolves bedrock; third, cavities grow larger over time; and fourth, the surface collapses as a consequence of the unsupported cavities. The transition words 'then', 'Eventually', and 'Consequently', along with the referring phrase 'This acidic water', reinforce this sequence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the introductory sentence that establishes the initial cause of the sequence.
The sentence about rainwater absorbing carbon dioxide to turn acidic is identified as the start of the sequence.
It does not rely on any preceding context or pronouns and establishes the source of the acidity needed for the subsequent steps.
2
Look for transition words and pronoun referents that connect to the initial sentence.
The sentence beginning with 'This acidic water then percolates...' is placed second.
The phrase 'This acidic water' directly references the result of the first sentence, and the transition 'then' denotes the next step in the physical process.
3
Trace the logical progression of cause and effect in the dissolution of subterranean rock.
The sentence starting with 'Eventually, the underground cavities...' is placed third.
The creation of 'underground cavities' is the logical long-term consequence of the percolation and dissolution described in the second step, indicated by the time transition 'Eventually'.
4
Identify the final outcome or culmination of the sequence.
The sentence starting with 'Consequently, the surface suddenly collapses...' is placed last.
The transition 'Consequently' signals the direct result of the cavities becoming too large to support the surface weight, concluding the process of sinkhole formation.

Key Concept

Chronological and logical sequencing in informative texts relies on transition words (such as 'then', 'eventually', and 'consequently') and pronoun referents (such as 'this acidic water') to establish a clear order of events.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Transitions: Chronology and Sequence

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