Select the correct option:
Scarcely had the satellite deployed _______ it transmitted its first data packet.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is option 2 i.e. when.
Introduction: This sentence uses a negative inversion structure with scarcely.
Context: It describes two actions where the second follows immediately after the first.
Analysis of the given options:
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then – incorrect with “scarcely”
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when – correct pair: Scarcely… when
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that – incorrect
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after – incorrect with “scarcely”
Correct word: when
Reason: “Scarcely” pairs with when to show two actions occurring in quick succession.
Final Sentence: Scarcely had the satellite deployed when it transmitted its first data packet.
Hence, the chosen option is correct.