The scientist's hypothesis, though initially met with skepticism, was eventually _______ by a series of independent studies that confirmed her predictions. The once-controversial idea became accepted scientific consensus.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
disproven
validated
forgotten
questioned
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. The passage states studies "confirmed her predictions" and the idea "became accepted scientific consensus." "Validated" means to confirm as correct, precisely matching this shift from skepticism to acceptance.
Choice A is incorrect because "disproven" contradicts confirmed predictions. Choice C is incorrect because "forgotten" contradicts becoming consensus. Choice D is incorrect because "questioned" describes the initial reaction, not the eventual outcome.