Annex 1 THE ZERO CONDITIONAL

A conditional is used to talk about a possible or imaginary situation (the condition) and the consequences (or the result) of it.

The zero conditional is also used to express general or universal truths and facts (often things based on scientific fact). We also express instructions using this zero conditional. EXAMPLES: If he is angry, his face turns red! If he drinks too much coffee, he doesnt sleep. If the recorder is on, the green light appears. If you have any problem, call our store. Zero Conditional form: If clause in PRESENT SIMPLE + PRESENT SIMPLE Formation (IF Clause) If you heat water to 100C, or... (Main Clause) Water boils For example:

(Main Clause) it boils.

(IF Clause) if you heat it to 100C,

If people eat too much, they get fat. If you touch a fire, you get burned. People die if they don't eat. You get water if you mix hydrogen and oxygen.

When we start with the result part of the conditional, we don't need a comma: Find some other person next time you need a babysitter. You go to bed when it's 7.30. Paul always helps if there's an emergency.

If, when, whenever

If and when or whenever mean the same thing in the zero conditional. examples: If it rains, she takes the bus = When it rains, she takes the bus. Whenever he sees a spider, he screams. = If he sees a spider, he screams. Notice that 'unless' means the same as 'if not'. Unless he asks you politely, refuse to do any more work on the project. Unless prices are rising, it's not a good investment. Unless you've been there yourself, you don't really understand how fantastic it is.