Explanation
Correct answer: C.
Choice C is the best answer. “Granted” logically signals that the information in this sentence—that Alkaid’s brightness is likely due to its relative proximity to Earth—is a concession acknowledging that the star likely appears bright for different reasons than the faraway star to which it is compared, Shaula.
Why the other choices are wrong
Choice A
Choice A is incorrect because “indeed” illogically signals that the information in this sentence offers additional emphasis in support of the previous information about Alkaid ranking among the 50 brightest stars. Instead, the sentence concedes that the most likely reason Alkaid is counted among the sky’s brightest stars is its relative proximity to Earth.
Choice B
Choice B is incorrect because “as a result” illogically signals that Alkaid’s brightness is caused by the previous information about Alkaid ranking among the 50 brightest stars. Instead, the sentence concedes that the most likely reason Alkaid is counted among the sky’s brightest stars is its relative proximity to Earth.
Choice D
Choice D is incorrect because “similarly” illogically signals that the information in this sentence is similar to the previous information about Alkaid ranking among the 50 brightest stars. Instead, the sentence concedes that the most likely reason Alkaid is counted among the sky’s brightest stars is its relative proximity to Earth.