Multiple choice

Scientists predict that a jump in the national population growth rate of just two percent could require China to more than double its average agricultural production annually in ten years time.

  1. a jump in the national population growth rate of just two percent could require China to more than double its average agricultural production annually

  2. a jump of just two percent in its national population growth rate could require China to more than double its average annual agricultural production

  3. a jump in the national population growth rate by just two percent could require China to more than double its average annual agricultural production

  4. China would be required to more than double its average agricultural production annually to meet a jump of just two percent in its national population growth rate
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B Correct answer
Explanation

Correct. The option removes the error of misplaced modifier by putting 'a jump of just two percent' next to 'China's population growth rate'. By specifying that it is China's (its) population growth rate that is being talked about, the ambiguity regarding whose growth rate is being talked about is also eliminated. The placement of 'annual' makes clear that China would need to more than double its average agricultural production in ten years time.

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