A theme is the central message or underlying idea that a literary work communicates. The other options refer to plot structure, setting, and conflict, which are distinct literary elements.

The sentence 'I went to the store, and I bought apples.' correctly uses a comma to separate two independent clauses. The other options misuse punctuation, resulting in awkward or incorrect sentence structure.

Multiplying 5 by 7 yields 35. The other options result from simple calculation errors or misinterpretations of the operation.

A simile explicitly compares two different things using connecting words such as 'as' or 'like'. The first option demonstrates this comparison clearly, while the other options either use metaphors or do not employ figurative language.

To infer means to deduce or conclude information that is implied by the text, even though it is not directly stated. This involves reading between the lines using contextual clues, which is different from summarizing or memorizing.

Persuasive texts frequently employ the appeal to emotion, known as pathos, which utilizes emotive language to influence the reader's feelings. While logical reasoning and factual evidence are also important, this approach is specifically designed to evoke emotions.

The sentence that maintains parallel structure uses the same grammatical form for each element in a list. Option B consistently uses gerunds, making it the correct choice, while the other options mix different verb forms.

Adding 3 to both sides of the equation gives 2x = 10, and dividing both sides by 2 yields x = 5. This straightforward algebraic manipulation confirms the correct answer.

Evidence is incorporated in an expository essay to back up the writer's claims with factual support, ensuring that the argument is persuasive and credible. This differentiates evidence from elements meant solely for entertainment or unnecessary complexity.

In the slope-intercept form of a line (y = mx + b), the slope is given by the coefficient m. In this equation, m equals 3, making it the correct answer.

A semicolon is correctly employed in the first option to join two independent clauses without the use of a conjunction. This proper punctuation enhances clarity, unlike the other choices which incorrectly mix punctuation marks.

Character depth is best achieved by revealing internal thoughts and conflicts, which provide insight into motivations and personality. While physical descriptions add detail, they are less effective in conveying a character's inner life.

Calculating 2 raised to the power of 3 gives 8, and multiplying 3 by 2 gives 6; together they total 14. This step-by-step computation confirms that 14 is the correct answer.

Clear academic writing depends on concise language and well-organized sentences that effectively convey ideas. The correct option emphasizes these techniques, unlike the other choices which tend to obscure meaning.

Since y is directly proportional to x, the constant of proportionality can be found by dividing y by x (10/2 = 5). When x is 5, y is 5 multiplied by 5, which gives 25.

Ethos is the rhetorical appeal that emphasizes the speaker's credibility and ethical character, thereby building trust with the audience. This is distinct from pathos, which appeals to emotions, and logos, which relies on logic.

Improving coherence involves guiding the reader through the text using transitional phrases and a logical reorganization of ideas. This approach creates a smooth flow, unlike the other options which disrupt or fail to enhance clarity.

The vertex of a quadratic function in standard form can be found using the formula (-b/(2a), f(-b/(2a))). With a = 2 and b = -4, the vertex calculates to (1, -1). The other options do not satisfy this calculation.

By substituting x = y + 1 from the second equation into the first, the system simplifies to 5y = 10, giving y = 2 and x = 3. This unique solution meets both equations, making it the correct choice.

Recurring behaviors paired with subtle emotional cues typically suggest an underlying internal conflict affecting the character's decisions. This inference captures the depth of character development, unlike interpretations that attribute actions solely to external factors or routine habits.