Within baleen whale species, some individuals develop an accessory spleen—a seemingly functionless formation of splenetic...
Within baleen whale species, some individuals develop an accessory spleen—a seemingly functionless formation of splenetic tissue outside the normal spleen. Given the formation’s greater prevalence among whales known to make deeper dives, some researchers hypothesize that its role isn’t ______; rather, the accessory spleen may actively support diving mechanisms. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
- A) replicable
- B) predetermined
- C) operative
- D) latent
Correct Answer: C) operative
Explanation
The most logical and precise choice to complete the text would be C) operative. The sentence suggests that the role of the accessory spleen in baleen whales is not inactive or latent; rather, some researchers hypothesize that it actively supports diving mechanisms. Therefore, the accessory spleen is likely operative in some way, contributing to the whales' diving abilities.