Question #N999
The scientist's research, which is focused on the impact of climate change on coral reefs, ______ a variety of complex factors.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. involves
B. involving
C. involved
D. to involve
Correct Answer is: A
The correct answer is "involves." The sentence requires a finite verb to modify the noun phrase "the scientist’s research." The participle "involving" would be incorrect because it's a nonfinite verb. The past participle "involved" would be incorrect because it suggests the action has already been completed. "To involve" would be incorrect because it's a nonfinite to-infinitive. Of these choices, only the present tense verb "involves" makes sense in the context.