Choose the most accurate antonym for 'ephemeral' in scientific writing:
'While atmospheric vapor blooms are ephemeral, the chemical changes they leave in cloud condensation nuclei are remarkably ________.'
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: C. enduring
Answer: enduring. Why not the others: 'transient', 'fleeting', and 'fugacious' are all synonyms of 'ephemeral', denoting short duration.
- Step 1: Define 'ephemeral': lasting for a very brief period; transient.
- Step 2: The sentence sets up an explicit contrast ('While ... are ephemeral, the changes ... are remarkably [opposite]'). The true antonym is 'enduring' (lasting over a long period).
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