What does the suffix 'ity' signify in terms of word formation?

The suffix 'ity' is used in English to denote a condition or state of being. When added to a word, it transforms adjectives into nouns that express a particular quality or state associated with the base word. For example, 'active' becomes 'activity,' which refers to the state of being active. Similarly, 'happy' becomes 'happiness,' indicating the state of being happy. This morphological process allows for the creation of abstract nouns that define certain qualities, making it easier to discuss various conditions or states in a nuanced way.

The other options do not accurately capture the functional role of the suffix 'ity.' While it does not specifically indicate a degree of intensity or serve as a comparative adjective, it is primarily concerned with state or condition. Additionally, while some scientific terms may end in 'ity,' not all words containing this suffix are scientific in nature, as it applies broadly across various contexts in the English language.