Set 9: Transitions (Intermediate)
Explanation
PASSAGE
The Manhattan Project's development of nuclear weapons required unprecedented collaboration between theoretical physicists, engineers, and military personnel across multiple secret facilities. Security compartmentalization meant that most workers didn't know the project's ultimate purpose. _______ the successful Trinity test on July 16, 1945, confirmed that even they hadn't fully grasped the destructive potential of what they'd built.
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. Even the scientists were shocked by the test—this reveals something profound. 'Tellingly' emphasizes the significance of this reaction. 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:
• "didn't know the project's ultimate purpose"
• "hadn't fully grasped the destructive potential"
Why others are wrong: B (Example - the Trinity reaction is a culmination, not an example of secrecy.), D (Concurrent events - this is a revelatory moment, not a parallel action.), A (Cause/effect - their shock isn't a logical result of compartmentalization.).
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