Set 13: Transitions
Explanation
PASSAGE
Gravitational waves, first predicted by Einstein in 1916, were not directly detected until 2015. The signals were incredibly faint, requiring extraordinarily sensitive instruments. _______ the LIGO detectors can measure distortions smaller than one ten-thousandth the diameter of a proton.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Detailed Answer Explanation
This question asks you to choose the transition that best connects two ideas. 'Extraordinarily sensitive' is vague; the measurement detail makes it concrete. 'To put this in perspective' introduces this clarifying comparison. Transitions signal the relationship between sentences or paragraphs. Determine the logical relationship (addition, contrast, cause-effect, example) and select the transition that accurately expresses it. The right transition makes the relationship between ideas crystal clear. Consider what logical connection exists: Is the second idea adding to the first? Contrasting it? Showing a result? The transition should accurately reflect this relationship.
Key Evidence:
• "extraordinarily sensitive instruments"
• "smaller than one ten-thousandth the diameter of a proton"
Why others are wrong: C (Contrast - no contradiction here.), D (Contrast - the measurement capability confirms, not contradicts, the sensitivity claim.), A (Concurrent events - this explains, not parallels, the sensitivity.).
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