6. Currently, the technology exists to meet a significant portion of the world's energy demands by converting wave power to electricity. If the author removed the word 'significant' from this sentence, the new sentence would
Answer: A
The removal of the word 'significant' would show diminished potential for this technology.
Removing the word 'significant' reduces the perceived impact of the technology on meeting energy demands, suggesting that its contribution may be less substantial than previously implied.
A) show diminished potential for this technology.
This option is correct because omitting the word 'significant' implies that the technology might not be capable of meeting a large portion of the world's energy demands, thus diminishing its potential and effectiveness in addressing energy needs.
B) allow the reader to infer the importance of the technology.
This option is incorrect as removing 'significant' would not enhance the reader's understanding of the technology's importance. Instead, it would likely imply a lesser role in energy generation, which contradicts the idea of importance.
C) create a realistic portrayal of the technology.
This option is incorrect because the removal of 'significant' does not necessarily lead to a more realistic portrayal. Rather, it could misrepresent the technology’s actual capabilities, suggesting it is less effective than it is claimed to be.
D) indicate a greater reliance on the technology.
This option is incorrect because removing 'significant' would not indicate greater reliance; instead, it would suggest a reduced reliance on the technology, as it implies a lower capacity to meet energy demands.
Conclusion
The correct answer, A, clearly illustrates how the removal of the word 'significant' diminishes the perceived potential of ocean wave technology in meeting energy demands. All other options either misinterpret the implications of the change or inaccurately represent the technology’s role. Thus, the integrity of the statement hinges on the inclusion of 'significant' to convey its true impact.