Question

The ebb and flow of the tides ___________ explained by newton

Answer 1

Ebb and flow' is a compound subject with the coordinating conjunction 'and.' Compound subjects joined by 'and' are usually treated as plural and need plural verbs. However, in this sentence, 'ebb and flow' is considered as a single unit or entity, hence it is treated as a singular subject and requires a singular verb.

Answer 2

Complete question:

In the following sentence supply a verb in agreement with its subject.

The ebb and flow of the tides ______ explained by Newton. [Advanced]

A. Was

B. Were

C. Has

D. Have

Answer:

The ebb and flow of the tides A. Was explained by newton

Explanation for the answer:

• 'Ebb and flow' is a compound subject having the coordinating conjunction 'and.'
• Compound subjects are joined by 'and' are generally treated as plural and need plural verbs.
• Though in this sentence, 'ebb and flow' are considered as a single unit or entity, thus it is treated as a singular subject and needs a singular verb.
• Hence, the correct answer is option A) Was.

Explanation for the incorrect option:

• Options B, C and D do results in grammatically incorrect sentences.

(#SPJ2)