Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct definition of dilute is to make a liquid less concentrated. When a substance is diluted, it means it has been mixed with another substance to reduce its strength or concentration. Option A, 'To concentrate,' is the opposite of dilute. Option C, 'To solidify,' means to make or become hard or solid, which is unrelated to diluting a liquid. Option D, 'To evaporate,' means to change from a liquid to a vapor, also unrelated to diluting a liquid. Therefore, the correct answer is B.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'A characteristic or constant factor.' In the context of systems or experiments, a parameter is a fixed element that influences the behavior or outcome. It is not a variable like in choice A, which can change. Choice C, 'A measurable limit,' is incorrect as a parameter is not necessarily a physical limit but a defining factor. Choice D, 'A calculated risk,' is unrelated to the definition of a parameter.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Ritualistic.' This adjective describes actions performed in a habitual or ceremonial manner, which aligns with the context of the patient's repeated arrangement of food. 'Formal' (choice A) does not capture the repetitive nature of the behavior. 'Formalizing' (choice C) refers to the process of making something formal rather than describing repetitive behavior. 'Ritual' (choice D) is a noun and does not best describe the patient's behavior in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'never would have happened.' This choice correctly expresses the hypothetical outcome that did not occur due to the motorist obeying the speed limit sign. The phrase 'never would have happened' is the most suitable option in this context as it indicates a past event that was prevented by following a certain condition. Choice A ('could have happened') is incorrect as it does not convey the same level of certainty and definiteness as 'never would have happened.' Choice C ('wouldn't have occurred') is close but lacks the emphasis on the event not taking place at all. Choice D ('could happen') is in the present tense and does not fit the context of a past hypothetical situation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When something is described as distended, it means that it is swollen or expanded, not shrunken, narrow, or flattened. In a medical context, distention often refers to an abnormal swelling or enlargement of an organ or structure. 'Shrunken' is incorrect as it means reduced in size, 'narrow' is incorrect as it means not wide, and 'flattened' is incorrect as it means pressed or squeezed flat.