| 161. A wildlife expert predicts that the reintroduction of the caribou into northern Minnesota would tail if the density of the timber wolf population in that region is more numerous than one wolf for every 39 square miles.
(A) would fail if the density of the timber wolf population in that region is more numerous than
(B) would fail provided the density of the timber wolf population in that region is more than
(C) should fail if the timber wolf density in that region was greater than
(D) will fail if the density of the timber wolf population in that region is greater than
(E) will fail if the timber wolf density in that region were more numerous than
D,
the best choice, uses a correct sequence of present and future
indicative verb forms--predicts, will fail, and is--in the three
related clauses. Density, an abstract "mass" noun, is logically
construed with greater than. In A and B, would fail disagrees with the
other verbs in tense and mood. Choice A misconstrues density with more
numerous than, and B uses the pretentious and illogical word provided for ifm a conditional clause after a negative idea (would fail).
C's should fail and was are confusing and inconsistent with predicts. C
and E use the absurd phrase timber wolf density. (The wolves are not
dense; their population is dense.) E also uses an inconsistent
subjunctive form, were, and misconstrues density with more numerous
than.
can you tell me the use of one?
thanks
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