The researcher's findings were considered provisional by the scientific community, pending replication by independent laboratories that could verify whether the unexpected results were genuine or methodological artifacts.
As used in the text, what does the word "provisional" most nearly mean?
permanent
rejected
famous
temporary
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. The passage describes findings awaiting verification, indicating they are accepted conditionally. "Temporary" captures this status of being subject to change upon further evidence.
Choice A is incorrect because "permanent" contradicts pending verification. Choice B is incorrect because "rejected" overstates; the findings await verification. Choice C is incorrect because "famous" doesn't relate to verification status.