Question 120·Hard·Transitions
Scientists long assumed that the planet Venus was geologically dead: its surface, thought to be billions of years old, seemed unchanged in every radar image captured by passing spacecraft. _____, new high-resolution mapping has revealed networks of rift zones and volcanic plains that indicate the planet may still be tectonically active.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?
For transition questions, first ignore the answer choices and read the sentence (or sentences) around the blank to decide the relationship between the ideas: contrast, cause/effect, example, addition, or similarity. Put a simple label in your head (like “contrast” or “result”), then look at the options and eliminate any transitions whose usual function doesn’t match that relationship—even if they seem to “sound good.” Choose the option whose meaning fits the logic between the two parts, not just the one that feels smooth.
Hints
Look at what changes between the two parts
Focus on how the idea about Venus before the blank compares to the idea after the blank. Is the later information agreeing with, giving an example of, or challenging the earlier belief?
Classify the relationship
Ask yourself: does the second part show a result of the first, provide an example, show something similar, or present information that goes in the opposite direction?
Match relationship to transition types
Think about what each answer choice usually does in a sentence: one shows a result, one gives an example, one shows similarity, and one shows contrast. Which type matches the relationship you identified between the two parts?
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand the first idea
Read the first part of the sentence: scientists long assumed Venus was geologically dead, and its surface seemed unchanged in all radar images. This sets up an old belief or expectation: Venus does not have current geological activity.
Understand the second idea
Now read the part after the blank: new high-resolution mapping has revealed rift zones and volcanic plains suggesting Venus may still be tectonically active. This is new evidence that challenges or contradicts the earlier assumption that the planet was geologically dead.
Identify the logical relationship
Compare the two ideas:
- First idea: Venus is assumed to be geologically dead and unchanging.
- Second idea: New data suggests it may still be active. The second idea goes against or contradicts the first one. So the relationship is one of contrast, not cause, example, or similarity.
Match the relationship to the transition choices
Now check each transition’s meaning:
- “Consequently” = as a result (cause/effect)
- “For instance” = for example
- “Likewise” = in the same way/similarly
- “However” = contrast/exception Only a contrast word correctly connects an old belief with new, opposing evidence. Therefore, the correct answer is A) However.