Question

more than an explorer
john wesley powell (1834 - 1902) was perhaps the greatest in a long line of fearless and dynamic american explorers of the nineteenth century. to powell, the pursuit of science and the expansion of human knowledge were of the utmost importance. whether he sought to be anonymous or not, powells achievements brought him glory - and the fact that he achieved them with one arm (he lost the other at the battle of shiloh in 1862) made them all the more glorious.
after the civil war, powell was appointed professor of geology at illinois wesleyan university and curator of the museum of the illinois state natural history society - which was famous for its ornithological exhibits. he had always been a man of action, and he refused to let the lack of an arm frustrate his plans to explore the uncharted waterways of the american west in search of specimens for his collections. it is for the fulfillment of these plans that powell is most celebrated.
in 1869, powell and nine companions set out in four boats to explore the canyons of the green and colorado rivers. the expedition was not equipped to deal with whitewater rapids, and the grim 1,000 - mile journey was made harder by a shortage of rations. native americans in the grand canyon river gorge were astonished to see powell and his team taking on waters that even they were reluctant to navigate. two years later, powell led a second - and better - equipped - expedition into the region.

1. what does dynamic most likely mean as it is used in paragraph 1?

a. uncontrollably explosive
c. wildly curious
b. intensely energetic
d. sturdy and reliable

1. which word is closest in meaning to utmost as it is used in paragraph 1?

a. strangest
c. greatest
b. extreme
d. least

1. anonymous comes from the greek word anonumos. anonumos most likely means

a. charming
c. nameless
b. heroic
d. learned

1. what is the meaning of grim as it is used in paragraph 3?

a. merciful
c. dirty
b. short
d. frightful

1. which word means the opposite of reluctant in paragraph 3?

a. patient
c. persistent
b. eager
d. thoughtful

Explanation:

1. In the context of describing explorers, "dynamic" means having energy and drive. "Intensely energetic" fits this description as it implies a high level of activity and vitality.
2. "Utmost" means the greatest or highest degree. "Greatest" is the closest in meaning as it conveys the idea of being at the top or maximum.
3. "Anonymous" means without a name. "Nameless" is the direct translation from the Greek root, which aligns with the meaning.
4. The journey was difficult and challenging, so "grim" here means frightful or unpleasant.
5. "Reluctant" means hesitant or unwilling. "Eager" is the opposite as it means enthusiastic and willing.

Answer:

1. b. intensely energetic
2. c. greatest
3. c. nameless
4. d. frightful
5. b. eager