Which of the following expressions could be used to fill in the blank? (More than one is possible) Though there is little data on tooth decay previous to the mass consumption of soft drinks with corn syrup, it is __ by field experts that an increased tax on corn syrup would raise the price on these beverages, thereby decreasing how much people drink them and reducing their collective damage to people's teeth. predictable projected anticipated D expected decided

## Step 1<br />The problem is a multiple-choice question that tests your understanding of English vocabulary and context. The sentence is about the potential impact of an increased tax on corn syrup on the consumption of soft drinks and their effect on people's teeth. The blank in the sentence needs to be filled with a word that indicates a prediction or expectation about the future.<br /><br />## Step 2<br />Let's analyze each option:<br />- 'Predictable' means something that can be predicted or foreseen. However, it doesn't fit well in the context of the sentence because it doesn't imply a prediction or expectation.<br />- 'Projected' means something that is estimated or predicted based on current data or trends. This word fits well in the context of the sentence because it implies a prediction about the future.<br />- 'Anticipated' means something that is expected or predicted. This word also fits well in the context of the sentence because it implies a prediction or expectation.<br />- 'Expected' means something that is supposed to happen. This word fits well in the context of the sentence because it implies a prediction or expectation.<br />- 'Decided' means something that has been determined or decided. This word doesn't fit well in the context of the sentence because it doesn't imply a prediction or expectation.<br /><br />## Step 3<br />Based on the analysis, the words 'projected', 'anticipated', and 'expected' are the most suitable options to fill in the blank. They all imply a prediction or expectation about the future, which fits the context of the sentence.