19. Which is the best way to revise and combine the underlined portions of sentences 9 and 10 (reproduced below)? The chips remained a local delicacy until the Prohibition era. This is when an entrepreneur named Herman Lay popularized the product throughout the Southeastern United States.
Answer: D
The chips remained a local delicacy until the Prohibition era, when an entrepreneur named Herman Lay popularized the product throughout the Southeastern United States.
The best way to revise and combine the sentences is to use "era, when," which effectively connects the two ideas while maintaining clarity and flow.
A) era, this is when
This option introduces unnecessary complexity and a less formal tone. The phrase "this is when" can disrupt the flow of the sentence, making it less concise and professional.
B) era, then
While "then" could imply a chronological sequence, it does not provide the direct connection needed between the two clauses. This option lacks specificity and can make the sentence feel abrupt.
C) era, which is when
Using "which is when" adds unnecessary words and complexity to the sentence. It complicates the construction without enhancing clarity, making the sentence less effective.
D) era, when
This option is the most straightforward and effective way to link the two ideas. It creates a clear connection between the end of the local delicacy status and the beginning of Herman Lay's popularization efforts, maintaining a professional tone.
Conclusion
Option D is definitively the best choice as it provides a clear and concise connection between the two clauses, preserving the formal tone of the text. All other options either complicate the sentence structure or introduce unnecessary wording that detracts from clarity.