Language development: word study
identify the choice that best answers the question.

the word intercity is made up of the prefix inter- plus the word city. from your knowledge of the meaning of the prefix inter-, identify the choice that best describes what an intercity bus is.

a. a bus that runs from one city to another city
b. a bus that operates solely within the city limits of a city
c. a bus that travels short distances in a city and makes many stops
d. a bus that goes directly from one part of a city to another without stopping

Why does the author's description of the mercury boiler—"the mercury, when vaporized, going into a mercury turbine and then into a condenser, remaining hot enough to generate steam in a steam boiler"—intentionally incorporate such highly technical language? using technical language establishes the expertise of the writer and convey the complex nature of the process being described. using technical language allows the writer to subtly poke fun at those who seek to make basic processes seem overly complicated. using technical language encourages readers to develop deeper and more meaningful personal connections to the information. using technical language lets the writer make clear to readers that the article is intended for readers who are themselves experts on electricity.