Meaning: To 'acknowledge' means to recognize or admit the existence or truth of something, in this case, their dependence on corn.

Wrong options:

• remember: While 'remember' suggests recalling something, it does not convey the recognition of dependence as effectively as 'acknowledge'.
• diverge: The term 'diverge' implies moving away from a common point, which does not fit the context of recognizing dependence on corn.
• increase: 'Increase' suggests a growth or rise in quantity, which is unrelated to the act of recognizing their dependence.

Correct answer: staple

Explanation: The word 'staple' is appropriate as it refers to a primary or essential item in a diet, which fits the context of corn being a fundamental part of the Maya's diet for thousands of years. It is grammatically correct and contextually relevant.

Meaning: A 'staple' is a basic food item that is used frequently and is essential for a diet, such as corn for the Maya.

Wrong options:

• join: 'Join' implies a connection or combination, which does not convey the idea of a primary food source.
• tapered: 'Tapered' refers to a gradual decrease in width or thickness, which is irrelevant in the context of describing a food item.
• direct: 'Direct' does not relate to food or diet and does not fit the context of describing corn's role.

Correct answer: has been

Explanation: The phrase 'has been' is the correct present perfect tense form that indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present, fitting the context of the building's ongoing existence. It agrees with the singular subject 'the building'.

Meaning: 'Has been' indicates that something started in the past and is still relevant or true now, in this case, the building's construction.

Wrong options:

• have been: 'Have been' is incorrect as it is used with plural subjects, while 'the building' is singular.
• is being: 'Is being' suggests an ongoing action, which does not fit since the building has already been completed.
• being: 'Being' is a gerund and does not fit grammatically in this context.

Correct answer: manifestation

Explanation: The word 'manifestation' fits well as it refers to something that embodies or represents a particular quality or idea, in this case, corn's influence on the supermarket's construction. It is grammatically and contextually appropriate.

Meaning: A 'manifestation' is a clear or obvious example of something, indicating how corn is represented in the supermarket.

Wrong options:

• engrossing: 'Engrossing' means captivating or absorbing, which does not relate to the idea of representation or embodiment.
• climbing: 'Climbing' refers to the act of ascending, which is unrelated to the context of describing corn's representation.
• walking: 'Walking' is a physical action and does not fit the context of describing a concept or representation.