Examkin

Question

Difficulty: Very hardWords in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary

In evolutionary biology, the concept of spandrels refers to phenotypic characteristics that are byproducts of other adaptations rather than direct products of natural selection. For instance, the hollow chambers in the shells of certain ancient mollusks did not arise to serve a specific buoyancy control function, as was once widely assumed. Instead, research indicates that these chambers were a structural consequence of the shell's spiral growth pattern. Thus, describing these chambers as active adaptations is ______; they are more accurately understood as neutral anatomical side effects of growth constraints.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

  1. A
    deleterious
  2. untenableAnswer
  3. C
    prevalent
  4. D
    primitive

Answer

untenable
The correct answer is the option meaning indefensible or unsustainable. The passage establishes that the chambers in the shells of ancient mollusks were not selected for buoyancy control but are merely structural byproducts of spiral growth. Consequently, the assertion that these chambers are active adaptations is scientifically indefensible, making the term fitting the meaning of unsustainable the most precise choice.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the blank within the passage.
The blank characterizes the action of describing the hollow chambers as 'active adaptations.' The passage contrasts this view with the finding that the chambers are actually 'neutral anatomical side effects' resulting from 'spiral growth pattern' constraints rather than natural selection.
Understanding the contrast helps determine the logical relationship and tone required for the blank.
2
Determine the meaning required for the blank.
Since the chambers are not active adaptations but rather byproducts, the description of them as active adaptations is incorrect, unsupported, or indefensible.
This establishes the semantic criteria for the correct word.
3
Evaluate the choices against the required meaning.
The word stating 'untenable' means indefensible or unsustainable, which perfectly fits the context that this classification is incorrect. Other options either mismatch in tone or connotation, or represent common misinterpretations of adjacent details.
This identifies the correct choice and explains why the others fail.

Key Concept

Words in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary
Rate this question

Topics

Words in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary

More questions from this topic