OpenSAT

Question #N885

The research team has been studying the effects of different types of fertilizer on the growth of corn. Their studies have shown that some types of fertilizer can increase the yield of corn, while other types of fertilizer have no effect. Their latest study, which examines the effects of a new type of fertilizer, has been published in the journal *Agricultural Science*.

Which choice most effectively combines the sentences at the underlined portion? *Their studies have shown that some types of fertilizer can increase the yield of corn, while other types of fertilizer have no effect.* **Their latest study, which examines the effects of a new type of fertilizer, has been published in the journal *Agricultural Science*.**

A. Their studies have shown that some types of fertilizer can increase the yield of corn, while other types of fertilizer have no effect; their latest study, which examines the effects of a new type of fertilizer, has been published in the journal *Agricultural Science*.

B. Their studies have shown that some types of fertilizer can increase the yield of corn, while other types of fertilizer have no effect, their latest study, which examines the effects of a new type of fertilizer, has been published in the journal *Agricultural Science*.

C. Their studies have shown that some types of fertilizer can increase the yield of corn, while other types of fertilizer have no effect, and their latest study, which examines the effects of a new type of fertilizer, has been published in the journal *Agricultural Science*.

D. Their studies have shown that some types of fertilizer can increase the yield of corn, while other types of fertilizer have no effect; their latest study, which examines the effects of a new type of fertilizer, has been published in the journal *Agricultural Science*.

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Correct Answer is: C

Choice C is the best answer because it correctly combines the two sentences using a comma and a coordinating conjunction. The comma separates the two independent clauses, and the conjunction “and” indicates that the second clause adds information to the first clause. The other choices create errors in punctuation or sentence structure. Choice A uses a semicolon, which is not correct because it does not separate two independent clauses. Choice B creates a comma splice, which is incorrect because a comma cannot separate two independent clauses. Choice D creates a run-on sentence because the two independent clauses are not properly separated.