Final answer:
The characteristic of a scholarly/academic journal is that the author's credentials are stated, highlighting their expertise and ensuring the reliability of the article. Academic journals are peer-reviewed and often require a subscription, but may be accessible through educational databases. Therefore the correct answer is d.author's credentials are stated.
Step-by-step explanation:
A characteristic of a scholarly/academic journal is that the author's credentials are stated. These credentials are important as they establish the authority of the author in their field of expertise. Scholarly articles are typically written and published by academic researchers and are peer-reviewed by experts before publication, ensuring a higher standard of scholarship. They often include specialized information and vocabulary targeted at those with a background in the subject area. The peer-review process provides strong evidence for an author's claims by reflecting rigorous research and scrutiny.
In contrast, articles from popular journals or magazines are aimed at a general audience and provide introductory or background information on a topic. Scholarly academic journals also differ in that they are more likely to list sources for further reference and provide evidence for the research presented within the article. Additionally, academic journals often require a subscription to access, but students may receive access through their school's databases or libraries.
Remember, when encountering an article requiring payment, to note down the relevant information about the article, as you might be able to access it through your school's database or another academic database referenced in the The Research Process: Where to Look for Existing Sources.