J.K. Rowling is not just a celebrated author in the United Kingdom; her influence transcends geographical boundaries. Although she gained initial prominence in the UK, her influence is not ______ just the UK: readers around the globe have been captivated by her storytelling and have found inspiration in her deeply relatable characters.

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

The annual melting of polar ice has become an increasing concern, disappearing at a rate that has caught the attention of scientists worldwide. Researchers are particularly alarmed by this ______ decline in polar ice cover, as its ramifications are far-reaching and directly contribute to the rising levels of global seas.

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

The fortress of Alamut, located in the Alborz mountain range, was historically known for its impregnable position. Nestled on a high rocky outcrop and surrounded by steep cliffs, Alamut's access was highly ______, making it a formidable stronghold against invaders and enabling its inhabitants to maintain autonomy for centuries.

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

The parasitic mistletoe plant enhances its chances of survival by synchronizing its flowering time with that of the host tree it has attached to. In a 2012 study, biologist Sara Green and her team discovered that the mistletoe achieves this ______ with its host by detecting and responding to a specific hormone produced by the host tree when it is ready to flower.

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

The tech startup boom in 2020 led to a significant influx of venture capital. However, the rapid acceleration of investments in such a short period caused many venture capitalists to ______ the associated risks, resulting in substantial financial losses when several startups failed to become profitable.

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

The intricate sculptures of Enzo Marinetti sometimes contain hidden compartments that are hard to discover even upon close examination. Critics contend that these enigmatic spaces are not merely accidental design elements but are indeed ________, indicating that they could be specifically designed to hold unseen artworks or personal mementos.

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

The following text is from Richard Mayer’s 1921 poem The Song of the Rain.

Silent whispers of clouds gather overhead, As the world awaits the sky's melancholy song, Soft drops begin their descent— Each one a note in the symphony of the storm; The rhythm quickens, a crescendo of cascading melodies, As rain kisses the earth, stirring life beneath, An orchestra of sounds rising, swelling, Eliciting a dance of joy from the parched land, While I stand, lost in the music, rain's serenade.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion in the text as a whole?

The following text is adapted from On Silent Wings, a memoir by Harold Jenkins. Jenkins details his early years of fascination with birds.

In the quiet of the dawn, I would sit by my window, peering into the misty morning, waiting for the first birds to make their appearance. With hushed anticipation, I studied each feathered creature, marveling at their varied forms and behaviors. Some were bold and unabashed, flitting about with a certain swagger, while others were more cautious and reticent. In their melodies and movements, I saw a world teeming with life, a symphony orchestrated by nature itself.

Which choice best describes the function of the underlined sentence in the text as a whole?

Text 1

The invention of blockchain technology and the subsequent rise of cryptocurrencies have sparked debates about their potential. Proponents like tech analyst Sarah Williams claim that these digital currencies can disrupt traditional financial systems and pave the way for a decentralized and global economy. However, critics argue that cryptocurrencies are too volatile and lack the regulation necessary for stable economic transactions.

Text 2

Financial expert Benjamin Lewis offers a balanced view on the cryptocurrency debate. He acknowledges the innovative potential of cryptocurrencies, yet he also notes their inherent volatility and regulatory challenges. He suggests that cryptocurrencies might not replace traditional financial systems soon but could exist alongside them as an alternative form of financial transaction.

Based on the texts, the author of Text 1 and the author of Text 2 would most likely agree with which statement?

The following text is from Alexandra L. Harrison's Beyond the Horizon. It focuses on Lucy, an ardent scientist dedicated to her research.

Lucy had always been driven by an insatiable curiosity and a steadfast commitment to her field. She spent countless hours in her laboratory, exploring the mysteries of nature and unveiling the secrets that lay hidden within the intricate framework of life itself. Her work was more than just a job, it was her passion. She believed that the quest for knowledge was a noble pursuit and dedicated her life to contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement. This relentless dedication often led her to burn the midnight oil, her eyes sparkling with the excitement of a potential discovery.

Based on the text, what can be inferred about Lucy?