Meaning: 'Conducted' means to carry out or manage an activity, especially research or experiments.

Wrong options:

• reduced: Reduced means to make smaller or less in amount, which does not fit the context of performing studies.
• conduced: Conduced is not a standard term in this context; it is a less common form of 'conduce,' which means to lead or contribute to a result, but it does not apply here.
• deduced: Deduced means to arrive at a conclusion through reasoning, which does not relate to the act of performing studies.

Correct answer: platforms

Explanation: The term 'platforms' refers to online systems or environments where citizen science can take place. It fits contextually as it describes the means through which the public can engage in scientific research. The plural form is appropriate here, aligning with the idea of multiple online avenues for participation.

Meaning: 'Platforms' are online spaces or systems that facilitate activities, in this case, scientific research involving public participation.

Wrong options:

• commodities: Commodities refer to basic goods or services that can be bought or sold, which does not fit the context of scientific research.
• ratios: Ratios are mathematical relationships between numbers, which are irrelevant in the context of citizen science.
• variables: Variables are elements that can change in an experiment, but they do not represent the platforms for citizen science.

Correct answer: while

Explanation: The word 'while' is a conjunction that indicates simultaneous actions, which is appropriate here as it describes the participants moving the cursor at the same time the cursor is being rotated. This fits grammatically and contextually, linking the two actions effectively.

Meaning: 'While' means during the time that; it indicates that two actions are happening at the same time.

Wrong options:

• nonetheless: Nonetheless means 'in spite of that,' which does not convey the simultaneous nature of the actions described.
• therefore: Therefore indicates a conclusion or result, which does not fit the context of two actions occurring at the same time.
• because: Because introduces a reason, which does not align with the need to show simultaneous actions.

Correct answer: adjust

Explanation: The verb 'adjust' means to change or modify something to achieve a desired fit or result. It fits grammatically as it is in the base form, which is appropriate following 'had to.' Contextually, it aligns with the need for participants to modify their movements in response to the cursor's rotation.

Meaning: 'Adjust' means to change or adapt something to make it work better or fit properly.

Wrong options:

• disrupt: Disrupt means to interrupt or disturb, which does not fit the context of modifying movements in a controlled manner.
• overcome: Overcome means to succeed in dealing with a problem, which does not accurately describe the action of modifying movements.
• pinpoint: Pinpoint means to locate or identify precisely, which does not relate to the act of modifying movements.

Correct answer: complement

Explanation: The word 'complement' means to complete or enhance something by providing additional features. It fits grammatically and contextually, as it suggests that the new approach can enhance traditional lab studies rather than replace them.

Meaning: 'Complement' means to add to something in a way that improves it or makes it more complete.

Wrong options:

• dispense: Dispense means to distribute or provide, which does not fit the context of enhancing or adding to studies.
• undergo: Undergo means to experience or endure something, which does not relate to the idea of enhancing studies.
• remain: Remain means to stay in the same place or condition, which does not convey the idea of adding value to traditional studies.