Question

when taphonomy records show a short pmi and warm, humid conditions, the degree of certainty is probably ______. not even close high definite low

Explanation:

Taphonomy studies the processes affecting remains after death. A short PMI (post - mortem interval) and warm, humid conditions can lead to rapid changes in remains. However, in such conditions, there are many factors (like insect activity, microbial growth) that can be variable. But compared to some other extreme or long - term scenarios, with a short PMI and known environmental conditions (warm and humid), we can make relatively reliable inferences. "Not even close" is too extreme as we have some data (short PMI and environmental conditions). "Definite" is too absolute as there are still some uncertainties in natural processes. "Low" is incorrect because we have more information than a situation with almost no data. A short PMI and known environmental conditions (warm, humid) give us a relatively good basis for analysis, so the certainty is "high".

Answer:

high