Question

Read the paragraph again.

Though atomic energy is less polluting than thermal energy, it poses a grave threat to life and environment in case of natural disasters. Hence countries may decide to rely less on atomic energy in the future. However presently we cannot shut down nuclear power plants because we have not yet developed a viable alternative. Solar energy is safer. Moreover, it is available in abundance, free of cost. But scientists have not yet come up with processes to harness solar energy for commercial use. On the whole, the present scenario on the power front does not look very encouraging.

1. Does the paragraph now read better?   Yes [  ] No [  ]
2. What is the function that the highlighted words and phrases perform?
3. Such expressions are called ‘connectors’- i.e, words or phrases which join together the writer’s or the speaker's thoughts and so make them flow more smoothly. In this unit we shall practice various types of ‘connectors’ in English.

Answer 1

1. Does the paragraph now read better?   Yes [✓] No [  ]
2. The highlighted words and phrases (Though, Hence, However, Moreover, But, On the whole) function as logical connectors (or transition words).
3. Specifically, they perform the following roles to make the text flow smoothly:
   • Show Contrast: Words like Though, However, and But introduce opposing ideas or exceptions (e.g., weighing the dangers of atomic energy against the current need for it, or contrasting the benefits of solar energy with current technological limitations).
   • Show Cause and Effect/Conclusion: Words like Hence and On the whole signal a result or a summary derived from the previous statements.
   • Add Information: Words like Moreover add supportive details or reinforce an argument (e.g., highlighting additional advantages of solar energy).