What is the contextual meaning of the word 'viable' in the following sentence: 'Given the high capital costs and energy intensity, nuclear desalination is considered a viable solution only if long-term waste disposal protocols are fully established'?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. Feasible, workable, and capable of success

  1. Step 1: In project feasibility and engineering, 'viable' describes an approach that is capable of working successfully, feasible, and sustainable under specific conditions.
  2. Step 2: The sentence states that nuclear desalination can work if waste disposal is resolved.
  3. Step 3: Thus, 'feasible, workable, and capable of success' is the correct meaning.
Answer
Feasible, workable, and capable of success.
Why not the others: 'Impossible to accomplish' is an antonym; 'Inexpensive and immediately profitable' contradicts the explicitly stated 'high capital costs'; 'Theoretical with zero utility' ignores practical feasibility.

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