Select the sentence that properly uses a restrictive relative clause without unnecessary commas:
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. The equations that describe electromagnetic wave propagation were formulated by James Clerk Maxwell.
- Step 1: A restrictive (essential) clause provides information necessary to identify the specific noun it modifies.
- Step 2: Restrictive clauses are introduced by 'that' and are NEVER set off by commas.
- Step 3: Without 'that describe electromagnetic wave propagation', we would not know which equations are meant. Therefore, commas should not be used.
Answer
The equations that describe electromagnetic wave propagation were formulated by James Clerk Maxwell.
Why not the others: Sentence 2 surrounds a restrictive 'that' clause with commas; Sentence 3 has an unclosed comma after 'propagation'; Sentence 4 has an opening comma without a closing comma.
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