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Difficulty: MediumTransitions: Contrast and Concession

For decades, ecologists believed that the relationship between *Cecropia* trees and *Azteca* ants was purely mutualistic, with the ants defending the host tree from herbivores in exchange for nesting space and nutrients. _______, recent studies have revealed a more complex, context-dependent dynamic: when herbivores are absent, the ants continue to consume the tree's resources without providing any measurable defense, shifting the relationship toward parasitism.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

  1. A
    Furthermore
  2. NonethelessAnswer
  3. C
    Consequently
  4. D
    Specifically

Answer

Nonetheless
The sentence before the blank describes a traditional belief that the relationship between the trees and ants is purely mutualistic (beneficial to both). The sentence after the blank introduces recent studies showing that the ants can consume resources without offering defense, which represents a shift toward parasitism (harmful or neutral to the host). This represents a contrast between historical assumptions and current findings. The transition word 'Nonetheless' correctly signals this contrast/concession relationship.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the relationship between the first and second sentences of the passage.
The first sentence outlines a long-held view that the relationship between the trees and ants is purely mutualistic, while the second sentence presents new evidence showing it can become parasitic.
Understanding the semantic connection between the sentences is necessary to choose the correct transition.
2
Determine the logical relationship type.
The two sentences represent opposing or contrasting viewpoints (mutualism vs. parasitism), indicating a contrast or concession relationship.
Defining the logical relation narrows the transition category to contrast/concession.
3
Evaluate the transition options based on this relationship.
The word 'Nonetheless' is a contrast transition. The other options signal addition ('Furthermore'), cause-and-effect ('Consequently'), or elaboration ('Specifically').
Selecting the transition word that correctly reflects contrast establishes logical flow.

Key Concept

Transitions: Contrast and Concession
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Transitions: Contrast and Concession

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