Is this a sentence fragment?The number of tornadoes recorded in the United States over the past few decades.

Identifying Sentence Fragments

1. Definition of a Sentence Fragment: A sentence fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought. Typically, it lacks a subject, a verb, or both.

2. Analysis of the Provided Phrase: The phrase "The number of tornadoes recorded in the United States over the past few decades" includes a subject ("The number of tornadoes") but lacks a verb and does not express a complete thought.

3. Conclusion: Since it does not provide a complete idea or thought and lacks a main verb, it qualifies as a sentence fragment.

Final Answer

Yes, the provided phrase is a sentence fragment because it does not express a complete thought.