Question

When an author puts something in parentheses he or she is often explaining the word or term that came just before. How does this author use parentheses to explain ph?

Option 1: By providing a phonetic pronunciation
Option 2: By giving a definition
Option 3: By offering examples
Option 4: By indicating a related concept

Answer 1

An author might use parentheses to add a phonetic pronunciation, a definition, an example, or indicate a related concept to the term 'pH'.

Step-by-step explanation:

When an author uses parentheses, it typically serves as a tool to provide additional, nonessential details that can include explanations, definitions, examples, or clarifications of the preceding term or concept. In the context of explaining pH, an author might use parentheses in several ways. For instance, they might include a phonetic pronunciation to guide readers on how to say 'pH,' as in 'potential of Hydrogen (pee-aych)'. Alternatively, the author could offer a definition to explain the term further, such as 'pH (a measure of acidity or alkalinity)'. Providing examples like 'pH (e.g. lemon juice has a pH of 2, which means it is acidic)' is another way authors might use parentheses. Lastly, indicating a related concept as in 'pH (closely related to the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution)' is also a possible use of parentheses by an author.