"that" or "which"

Dear Sir：

　　I have some questions about the following sentenses:

　　(1) I would like your authorization to trim the part of the tree that hangs into my yard.

　　Q: Is it correct to use “that” rather than which?

　　(2) In general, attire is required of guests at state functions in the White House.

　　Q: Why use “of” rather than “guests are required of attire”?

　　(3) It's charm and mild climate have made San Francisco, California, an attractive city for both business and residences.

　　Q: Why “that” in front of “climate” is omitted. Why not use “has”?

　　(4) Nitorgen is most plentiful gas in the atmosphere.

　　Q: Why “the” is omitted before “most”?

　　(5) Q: Is there any difference among the three words, regulation, law and act?

Kellie：

　　(1) The word “that” here is a relative pronoun introducing the adjective clause to modify the antecedent “the tree”. You may use another relative pronoun “which” if you so wish.

　　(2) This verb pattern is “something is required of someone”, in the passive form, meaning “one is directed to do something”; that is,”(formal) attire is needed for guests...” or “Guests are expected to be (formally) attired.”

　　(3) I think “it's” in this sentence is wrongly printed; it should be “its” (possessive case). As the subject “charm and mild climate” are plural in number, the verb “have” is correct.

　　(4) You are right; the definite article “the” is needed here. Otherwise, remove the noun “gas” to make “most” mean “very” in “Nitrogen is most plentful in the atmosphere.”

　　(5) The word “regulation” means “rule”. It often appears in “rules and regulations”. The word “law” is somewhat similar in meaning but is often used in “law and order”. As for “act”, one of its meanings is “decree” or “law”, e.g. “Do you remember the latest act of Parliament?”

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