Dr. Vance realized that even a minor fluctuation in the laboratory's ambient temperature could skew the enzyme readings. If the control samples were exposed to these variations, it would compromise the integrity of the multi-year study, rendering the entire dataset suspect. Rather than risk the validity of her findings, Vance chose to halt the trial immediately, prioritizing scientific rigor over the impending publication deadline. Her colleagues argued that the variance was negligible, but Vance refused to yield, knowing that a flawed process could permanently stain a researcher's reputation.
As it is used in the passage, the word 'compromise' most nearly means:
- Asettle
- Bexpose
- undermineAnswer
- Dsurrender
Answer
undermine
The correct answer is the option stating 'undermine'. In the context of the passage, temperature variations would damage or weaken the reliability ('integrity') of the research. Thus, 'compromise' is used in its secondary sense meaning to weaken, damage, or jeopardize.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Determining the meaning of a common word based on its specific context in a reading passage, particularly when the word is used in a secondary or less common sense.
Estimated Time:1m 30s