1. Blank (i): Scientific discoveries are often [blank] after being accepted as fact.

(A) validated (confirmed) $\(\rightarrow\)$ Doesn't create contrast; if facts are validated, confidence makes sense.
(B) published $\(\rightarrow\)$ Irrelevant to the irony.
(C) disproved $\(\rightarrow\)$ Fits perfectly; highlights the instability of "facts."

2. Blank (ii): Scientists leap to hasty conclusions, [blank] that the nature of facts hasn't eroded confidence.

(D) denying $\(\rightarrow\)$ Contradicts "leap to hasty conclusions" (denying would imply caution).
(E) refuting $\(\rightarrow\)$ Implies active disagreement, which doesn't fit.
(F) demonstrating $\(\rightarrow\)$ Fits; their haste shows their confidence persists despite instability.

3. Blank (iii): Describes the nature of what's called "fact."

(G) predictable $\(\rightarrow\)$ Opposite of the intended meaning (facts are unstable).
(H) incendiary (provocative) $\(\rightarrow\)$ Irrelevant.
(I) illusory (misleading/unreal) $\(\rightarrow\)$ Fits; implies facts are less solid than they seem.

Correct Triplet: (C) disproved, (F) demonstrating, (I) illusory.