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Difficulty: HardClause Boundaries and Linking

To mitigate the potentially destructive structural oscillations caused by high-velocity wind gusts and seismic activity, modern skyscrapers frequently incorporate a mechanism known as a tuned mass damper. This apparatus consists of a massive steel or concrete block suspended near the top of the ______ when the building sways, the block moves in the opposite direction to dissipate the kinetic energy.

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

  1. structure; whenAnswer
  2. B
    structure, when
  3. C
    structure when
  4. D
    structure, but when

Answer

The correct option is the one that reads 'structure; when'.
The correct option correctly uses a semicolon to separate two independent clauses. Semicolons are appropriate punctuation marks for linking closely related independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the clause boundaries in the passage.
The passage contains two independent clauses: the first ends with 'structure' and the second begins with 'when the building sways'.
Locating the boundary is necessary to determine how the two clauses should be linked.
2
Analyze the logical relationship between the clauses.
The second clause describes the function of the object described in the first clause. There is no contrast between them.
This determines whether a contrastive coordinator like 'but' is appropriate.
3
Evaluate the grammar of each option.
A semicolon correctly links the clauses. A comma creates a comma splice, no punctuation creates a run-on, and 'but' introduces an illogical contrast.
This identifies the option that conforms to standard English conventions.

Key Concept

Clause Boundaries and Linking
Estimated Time:1m 15s
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Topics

Clause Boundaries and Linking

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