Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blanks.

Today, natural history data and research ________ to be a quintessential complement to theoretical and experimental methods of inquiry: they ________ the baseline knowledge of natural systems required to extrapolate broader theory, test hypotheses and ________ the general principles that govern natural systems.

Option C best fits blanks.

Continue: Natural history data and research have always been important, and this phrasing suggests it's an ongoing practice.

Provide: This accurately describes how natural history data offers the foundation for further exploration.

Uncover: This term aligns with the purpose of using natural history data - to discover and reveal the underlying principles governing natural systems.pen_spark