Meaning: 'Fascinating' means extremely interesting or charming, suggesting that the questions posed are engaging and thought-provoking.

Wrong options:

• unattended: 'Unattended' means not being watched or cared for, which does not convey any sense of interest or engagement with the questions.
• gratuitous: 'Gratuitous' implies something unnecessary or unwarranted, which does not fit the context of describing intriguing questions.
• underlying: 'Underlying' refers to something that is fundamental or hidden, which does not capture the engaging nature of the questions being discussed.

Correct answer: activities

Explanation: The word 'activities' is a plural noun that fits grammatically and contextually, as it refers to the hands-on experiences being offered by the scientists. It aligns with the idea of engaging the public in scientific exploration.

Meaning: 'Activities' refers to tasks or actions that people do, particularly in a learning or experimental context, which is relevant to the hands-on approach mentioned.

Wrong options:

• mages: 'Mages' refers to magicians or sorcerers, which is irrelevant in this context and does not relate to the scientific activities being discussed.
• facets: 'Facets' means aspects or sides of something, which does not directly relate to the practical experiences being provided by the scientists.
• revenues: 'Revenues' refers to income or earnings, which is unrelated to the context of scientific activities and engagement.

Correct answer: intriguing

Explanation: The word 'intriguing' is an adjective that fits grammatically and contextually, describing the area of senses as interesting and engaging for all ages. It aligns well with the overall theme of curiosity in the passage.

Meaning: 'Intriguing' means arousing curiosity or interest, indicating that the topic of senses is captivating for everyone.

Wrong options:

• misleading: 'Misleading' means giving the wrong idea or impression, which contradicts the positive context of engaging with the senses.
• disproportionate: 'Disproportionate' refers to something that is out of proportion or unequal, which does not fit the context of describing an engaging topic.
• proximal: 'Proximal' means near or close, which does not convey any sense of interest or engagement with the topic of senses.

Correct answer: audiences

Explanation: The word 'audiences' is a plural noun that fits grammatically and contextually, referring to groups of people who are being targeted for engagement by the scientists. It aligns with the goal of reaching out to the public.

Meaning: 'Audiences' refers to groups of people who watch or listen to something, in this case, the scientific demonstrations and activities.

Wrong options:

• groups: 'Groups' is a general term for collections of people, but it lacks the specific context of engagement that 'audiences' provides.
• mobs: 'Mobs' implies a disorderly or unruly crowd, which does not fit the intended tone of inviting people to engage with science.
• auditors: 'Auditors' refers to people who review financial accounts, which is unrelated to the context of engaging the public in scientific activities.

Correct answer: encourage

Explanation: The word 'encourage' is a verb that fits grammatically and contextually, as it describes the action the organizers want to take towards people regarding their potential to attend University. It aligns with the supportive tone of the passage.

Meaning: 'Encourage' means to give support, confidence, or hope to someone, indicating the desire to motivate people to pursue higher education.

Wrong options:

• force: 'Force' implies coercion or pressure, which contradicts the supportive and inviting tone of the passage.
• plead: 'Plead' suggests begging or making an emotional appeal, which does not fit the context of encouraging people positively.
• credit: 'Credit' means to acknowledge or give recognition, which does not convey the action of motivating or supporting individuals to consider University.