Question #N311
Which choice correctly punctuates the following sentence: "The most recent scientific research on the impact of climate change on coral reefs indicates that rising sea levels are leading to the destruction of reefs—in many locations the damage is severe."
A. "The most recent scientific research on the impact of climate change on coral reefs indicates that rising sea levels are leading to the destruction of reefs, in many locations the damage is severe."
B. "The most recent scientific research on the impact of climate change on coral reefs indicates that rising sea levels are leading to the destruction of reefs; in many locations the damage is severe."
C. "The most recent scientific research on the impact of climate change on coral reefs indicates that rising sea levels are leading to the destruction of reefs, in many locations, the damage is severe."
D. "The most recent scientific research on the impact of climate change on coral reefs indicates that rising sea levels are leading to the destruction of reefs—in many locations, the damage is severe."
Correct Answer is: C
The comma after "reefs" is correct because it separates two independent clauses: the first clause is "The most recent scientific research on the impact of climate change on coral reefs indicates that rising sea levels are leading to the destruction of reefs" and the second is "in many locations, the damage is severe.". The second comma is needed because it sets off a nonessential phrase: "in many locations."