Question

Choose the option that best corrects the underlined word:
Plants obtain energy for their activities through photosynthesis, a process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

• A. photosynthesis:
• B. photosynthesis;
• C. photosynthesis
  
• D. NO CHANGE

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

photosynthesis:

The given sentence consists of two independent clauses.

Option A - As a general rule, a colon is used to separate two independent clauses when the second illustrates or explains the first. In the given sentence, the second half explains the process of photosynthesis. Thus, the usage of colon in place of comma will be more appropriate.

Option B - A semi colon is used between two independent clauses when the coordinating conjunction is omitted.