Question

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in the 1970s, many u.s. cities planted ginkgo trees. ginkgo trees are beautiful. they are also hardy. they are not hurt by smog, road salt, or bugs. they have even lived through wars. for years, the trees did not cause any problems. then, some began dropping seed shells. the shells are sticky and slimy. they also smell bad. some cities are cutting down all ginkgoes. others are doing nothing. they do not think the smell is too bad.
detail
ginkgo trees are ______.
a clean
b better
c strong
d bright

Explanation:

To solve this, we analyze the context. The passage says Ginkgo trees are hardy (not hurt by smog, road salt, bugs, lived through wars) and beautiful. The options are about their characteristics. "Strong" fits as hardy implies being strong (able to withstand harsh conditions). "Clean" doesn't relate to their hardiness. "Better" is comparative, not a descriptive trait here. "Bright" doesn't fit the context of tree hardiness/characteristics. So the best option is C.

Answer:

C. strong