Meaning: 'Calls' in this context means to require or demand something, indicating that caving necessitates a variety of skills.

Wrong options:

• demands: 'Demands' implies a stronger necessity and is less commonly used in this context, making it sound overly forceful.
• asks: 'Asks' suggests a request rather than a requirement, which does not convey the same level of necessity as 'calls'.
• requires: 'Requires' is a synonym but is more formal and less idiomatic in this context, making 'calls' a better fit.

Correct answer: lie

Explanation: The verb 'lie' is the correct choice as it indicates the position of the caverns beneath the Earth's surface, fitting grammatically in the present tense and contextually in describing their location.

Meaning: 'Lie' means to be situated or located in a particular place, which accurately describes where the caverns are found.

Wrong options:

• stay: 'Stay' implies remaining in a place but does not convey the idea of being situated beneath the surface.
• sit: 'Sit' suggests a more active position and is less appropriate for describing the static location of caverns.
• rest: 'Rest' implies a temporary position and does not accurately describe the permanent location of the caverns.

Correct answer: Despite

Explanation: The word 'Despite' introduces a contrast, indicating that even with the dangerous image of caving, the following statement about safety holds true. It fits grammatically and contextually as a discourse marker.

Meaning: 'Despite' means in spite of or regardless of, setting up a contrast between the perceived danger and the actual safety record of the sport.

Wrong options:

• Moreover: 'Moreover' adds information rather than contrasting it, making it unsuitable for this context.
• Nonetheless: 'Nonetheless' suggests a concession but is less direct than 'Despite' in introducing the contrast.
• All: 'All' does not function as a conjunction or transition word, making it grammatically incorrect in this context.

Correct answer: acquired

Explanation: The verb 'acquired' fits grammatically in the past participle form, indicating that the dangerous image has been obtained over time. Contextually, it suggests that this perception has developed due to media influence.

Meaning: 'Acquired' means to gain or obtain something, indicating that the dangerous image of caving has been formed through sensationalist media.

Wrong options:

• accepted: 'Accepted' implies a general acknowledgment but does not convey the idea of gaining a perception over time.
• assumed: 'Assumed' suggests a presumption rather than an active gaining of a perception, which does not fit the context.
• admitted: 'Admitted' implies a confession or acknowledgment, which does not accurately describe the development of the sport's image.

Correct answer: wade

Explanation: The verb 'wade' is appropriate as it describes moving through water, fitting grammatically in the present tense and contextually in the description of navigating underground rivers.

Meaning: 'Wade' means to walk through water, especially when it is deep or difficult, which accurately describes the action needed in this scenario.

Wrong options:

• amble: 'Amble' suggests a leisurely walk, which does not convey the effort required to move through water.
• stroll: 'Stroll' implies a casual walk, which is not suitable for the challenging environment described.
• hike: 'Hike' suggests a vigorous walk, typically on land, and does not fit the context of moving through water.