Question 163·Easy·Words in Context
To visualize ocean currents, scientists release biodegradable trackers into the water and then monitor their movement using satellite imaging software that _____ the trackers’ locations on a digital map.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For words-in-context questions, first read the full sentence and restate in your own words what role the missing word plays (for example, showing data, describing attitude, indicating cause). Then focus on the exact clause around the blank and think about the author’s purpose: is the word supposed to help, hinder, describe, or explain? Finally, plug each choice into the sentence and quickly eliminate any that clash with the overall goal, tone, or logic (such as a word that suggests hiding or damaging information when the sentence is about observing or studying something).
Hints
Zoom in on the key phrase
Read the part of the sentence after the word "that": what is the satellite imaging software doing in relation to the trackers’ locations on a digital map?
Think about the scientists’ goal
If scientists want to "visualize ocean currents" and "monitor" the trackers’ movement, would the software make the locations easier to see, or harder to see?
Test each choice in the sentence
Mentally insert each option into the blank and ask: Does this action help the scientists monitor and visualize the trackers’ positions on the map, or does it get in the way?
Step-by-step Explanation
Understand what the scientists are doing
The sentence says scientists "visualize ocean currents" by releasing trackers and monitoring them with satellite imaging software. The goal is to see where the trackers are so they can understand the movement of the water.
Focus on the clause with the blank
Look closely at the part after "that":
"...using satellite imaging software that _____ the trackers’ locations on a digital map."
We need a verb that describes what the software does with the trackers’ locations on the map. This should be something that fits the idea of helping scientists see or monitor those locations.
Check each option against the sentence’s purpose
Ask for each choice: Would this help visualize and monitor the trackers on a map?
- If the software avoids the locations, that would make them harder to monitor.
- If it twists or alters the locations, that would make the data inaccurate.
- If it hides the locations, that would also prevent monitoring. We are looking for a neutral verb that matches the purpose of showing the locations clearly for visualization.
Select the word that best fits the meaning
The only option that matches the idea of clearly showing the trackers’ locations on a digital map is “displays”, so the correct answer is A) displays.