Meaning: 'Represents' means to stand for or symbolize something, indicating that the three degrees is a significant measure of temperature change.

Wrong options:

• explores: 'Explores' implies investigation or examination, which does not fit the context of indicating a temperature change.
• predicts: 'Predicts' suggests forecasting future events, which is not the intent here as the sentence discusses a current measurement.
• proves: 'Proves' indicates demonstration of truth, which is not applicable since the sentence is about representation rather than validation.
• undermines: 'Undermines' means to weaken or damage, which contradicts the positive assertion of temperature representation.

Correct answer: unbearable

Explanation: The word 'unbearable' fits contextually as it describes a level of heat that is intolerable, which aligns with the dire implications of climate change discussed in the passage. It also matches the tone of urgency in the sentence.

Meaning: 'Unbearable' means something that is too painful or unpleasant to endure, indicating extreme discomfort due to heat.

Wrong options:

• comfortable: 'Comfortable' suggests a pleasant state, which contradicts the context of extreme heat and drought.
• historic: 'Historic' refers to something significant in history, which does not relate to the nature of heat described here.
• particular: 'Particular' indicates specificity, which does not convey the severity of heat in this context.
• temperate: 'Temperate' suggests mildness, which is the opposite of the extreme conditions being described.

Correct answer: consequences

Explanation: The word 'consequences' fits grammatically and contextually as it refers to the outcomes or effects of actions, particularly in relation to climate change. It aligns with the serious tone of the passage regarding the potential impacts on humanity.

Meaning: 'Consequences' means the results or effects of an action, particularly negative ones, indicating the serious outcomes of global heating.

Wrong options:

• achievements: 'Achievements' refers to accomplishments, which does not fit the context of negative outcomes discussed.
• considerations: 'Considerations' implies factors to think about, which does not convey the severity of the outcomes being described.
• dreams: 'Dreams' suggests aspirations or hopes, which is contrary to the serious nature of the consequences mentioned.
• phenomena: 'Phenomena' refers to observable events, which does not capture the intended meaning of negative outcomes.

Correct answer: diminished

Explanation: The word 'diminished' fits grammatically as it describes a reduced state of existence, aligning with the context of a worst-case scenario for humanity. It conveys a sense of loss and decline, which is consistent with the overall message of the passage.

Meaning: 'Diminished' means reduced in size, importance, or strength, indicating a weakened state of existence for humanity.

Wrong options:

• economical: 'Economical' refers to efficiency in use of resources, which does not relate to the state of existence described.
• peculiar: 'Peculiar' suggests something strange or unusual, which does not fit the context of a reduced existence.
• successful: 'Successful' implies achievement or prosperity, which contradicts the notion of a diminished existence.
• old-fashioned: 'Old-fashioned' refers to something outdated, which does not convey the intended meaning of a reduced state.