In 2021, a model developed by astrophysicist Catherine Zucker and her research team revealed that the same supernovas responsible for...
GMAT Expression of Ideas : (Expression) Questions
In 2021, a model developed by astrophysicist Catherine Zucker and her research team revealed that the same supernovas responsible for the creation and ongoing expansion of the Local Bubble—a 14-million-year-old cavity in the Milky Way—are likely responsible for the formation of new stars. _______ this model detailed how the bubble's expansion trapped interstellar clouds of gas and dust that became stars upon their eventual collapse.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
Step 1: Decode and Map the Passage
Create Passage Analysis Table
| Text from Passage | Analysis |
|---|---|
| "In 2021, a model developed by astrophysicist Catherine Zucker and her research team revealed that the same supernovas responsible for the creation and ongoing expansion of the Local Bubble—a 14-million-year-old cavity in the Milky Way—are likely responsible for the formation of new stars." |
|
| [MISSING TRANSITION] |
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| "this model detailed how the bubble's expansion trapped interstellar clouds of gas and dust that became stars upon their eventual collapse." |
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Provide Passage Architecture & Core Elements
Main Point: Catherine Zucker's 2021 model revealed that supernovas both create the Local Bubble and are responsible for star formation through a specific trapping mechanism.
Argument Flow: The passage presents a recent scientific discovery about the dual role of supernovas, then provides the specific mechanism by which this process works.
Step 2: Interpret the Question Precisely
This is a fill-in-the-blank question asking us to choose the best logical connector. The answer must create the right relationship between what comes before and after the blank.
Step 3: Prethink the Answer
- The sentence before the blank introduces a general finding—that supernovas are responsible for both creating the Local Bubble and forming new stars
- The sentence after the blank explains exactly HOW this happens—it gives us the specific mechanism
- We need a transition that signals we're moving from a general statement to specific details or explanation
- The relationship is one of elaboration
- ✗ Incorrect
- "Hence" indicates a logical conclusion or result
- The second sentence isn't a conclusion from the first; it's an explanation of how the model works
- ✗ Incorrect
- "However" signals contrast or opposition
- The second sentence doesn't contradict the first; it supports and explains it
- ✗ Incorrect
- "Admittedly" introduces a concession or acknowledgment of a potential weakness
- The second sentence provides supporting detail, not a concession
- ✓ Correct
- "Specifically" signals that more detailed information is coming
- Creates perfect logical flow: general finding to specific mechanism
- The second sentence does exactly this—it specifically details how the model works