Which type of conjunction can join two independent clauses by placing a comma and a coordinating conjunction between them?

The correct answer is appropriate because coordinating conjunctions specifically connect two independent clauses, forming a compound sentence. When two independent clauses are joined with a comma, a coordinating conjunction like "and," "but," or "or" is used to indicate the relationship between the thoughts expressed in each clause.

For example, in the sentence "I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain," the independent clauses "I wanted to go for a walk" and "it started to rain" are clearly connected, allowing the reader to understand both ideas simultaneously. This method enhances the flow and structure of complex sentences, making them more comprehensible and effective in writing.

Other types of conjunctions, such as correlative conjunctions or subordinating conjunctions, serve different purposes and do not create the same structure. Correlative conjunctions work in pairs to link elements within a sentence, while subordinating conjunctions connect an independent clause with a dependent clause, altering the relationship between the ideas presented. Conjunctive adverbs provide a link with a transitional effect rather than serving as traditional conjunctions to join clauses directly. Hence, the function of coordinating conjunctions uniquely fulfills the requirement stated in the question.