Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:
1. These factors include the amount of sunlight received, the composition of the atmosphere, and the Earth's orbit.
2. The long-term variations in Earth's climate are influenced by a complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors.
3. The most significant anthropogenic factor is the emission of greenhouse gases from industrial activities.
4. Together, these elements determine the planet's overall energy balance and, consequently, its average temperature.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. 2, 1, 4, 3.
Logical flow
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2 is the best opening sentence as it introduces the main topic: long-term variations in Earth's climate and the natural and anthropogenic factors that influence them.
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1 logically follows 2 as it specifies the "natural factors" mentioned in the first sentence (sunlight, atmosphere composition, orbit).
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4 serves as a transition/conclusion for the natural factors mentioned in 1, linking them to the planet's energy balance and average temperature. The phrase "Together, these elements" refers to the factors listed in 1.
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3 logically follows as it introduces the other major category mentioned in 2, the "anthropogenic factor," and specifies the most significant one (emission of greenhouse gases).
Correct sequence 2, 1, 4, 3
Final Sentence/Passage The long-term variations in Earth's climate are influenced by a complex interplay of natural and anthropogenic factors. These factors include the amount of sunlight received, the composition of the atmosphere, and the Earth's orbit. Together, these elements determine the planet's overall energy balance and, consequently, its average temperature. The most significant anthropogenic factor is the emission of greenhouse gases from industrial activities.
Hence, the chosen option will be correct.