<div>Choose the answer that best matches the word in italics. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the word, if necessary.<br><br>The oil spill <em>dispersed</em> throughout the river, killing hundreds of fish.</div>

The word "dispersed" in this context means that the oil spill spread or scattered throughout the river.

<div>Choose the answer that best matches the word in italics. Use context clues to determine the meaning of the word, if necessary.<br><br>She examined my costume minutely before declaring it the winner.</div>

The word "minutely" in this context means that she examined the costume very carefully or closely.

To choose the answer that best matches the word in italics, which is "dispersed," we need to understand the context of the sentence. In this case, the sentence mentions an oil spill that "dispersed" throughout the river and resulted in the death of hundreds of fish.

The word "dispersed" suggests that something has been spread out or scattered in different directions. In the context of an oil spill, it means that the oil has been spread or scattered in the river. So, we need to look for an answer choice that conveys the idea of spreading or scattering.

To determine the meaning of "dispersed" in this context, look at the options and choose the one that best matches the sense of spreading or scattering. It's important to understand the meaning of the sentence and use context clues to make an informed choice.