For the following question, refer to the passage titled "The Scientist Experiments" on the Unit Test Reading Passages sheet. Answer the question to improve elements of the passage such as sentence structure, word choice, overall organization, tone, and voice.
Which of the following best replaces the word "it" in Sentence 16?

A. the health of the soil
B. the scientist's interest
C. the question
D. regular watering
E. sunlight

Which words in this excerpt from the count of monte cristo can be used as synonyms to determine the meaning of the word grotto? dant? s entered the second grotto. the second grotto was lower and more gloomy than the first; the air that could only enter by the newly formed opening had the mephitic smell dant? s was surprised not to find in the outer cavern. he waited in order to allow pure air to displace the foul atmosphere, and then went on. 1. air 2. opening 3. mephitic 4. cavern 5. pure 6. atmosphere