Dr. Amara Chen's research team discovered that certain deep-sea organisms emit their own light through a process called bioluminescence. This natural phenomenon serves a crucial purpose: the glowing signals help these creatures _______ potential mates in the complete darkness of the ocean depths.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
avoid
confuse
attract
abandon
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The passage explains that bioluminescence produces "glowing signals" that help creatures find mates. The logical purpose of such signals would be to draw potential mates toward them, making "attract" the most precise word.
- Context clues: The phrase "help these creatures" followed by "potential mates" suggests a positive action related to finding a partner.
- Meaning: To attract means to draw by appealing to interest or desire.
- Verify: Substituting "attract" maintains the logical flow.
💡 Strategy: Look for the relationship between the blank and surrounding words.
Choice A is incorrect because "avoid" suggests staying away from mates, which contradicts the purpose of signaling. Choice B is incorrect because "confuse" implies misleading mates, which wouldn't serve a mating function. Choice D is incorrect because "abandon" means to leave behind, which is the opposite of finding mates.