Re: The average person is likely familiar with only three phases of matter
[#permalink]
03 Nov 2024, 00:16
The answer is C.
The sentence introduces the idea that most people are familiar with only the common states of matter and suggests that they would be surprised to learn about less common, exotic states. The blank requires a word that conveys this reaction.
Blank (i):
A. contrite: Contrite means feeling remorseful or regretful, which does not align with the context of being surprised or amazed.
B. saturnine: Saturnine means gloomy or morose, which is unrelated to the reaction of learning about unusual states of matter.
C. nonplussed: Nonplussed means surprised and confused, which fits well with the context of people being taken aback upon discovering the existence of bizarre states of matter.
D. dispirited: Dispirited means feeling disheartened or dejected, which does not fit the idea of being surprised or amazed.
E. livid: Livid means extremely angry, which does not align with the context.