In English vocabulary, select the best one word substitute for the expression “become liquid, typically during decomposition”.

Introduction:
One word substitution questions test a learner's depth of vocabulary by asking for a single precise word that can replace a longer description. The phrase become liquid, typically during decomposition refers to a specific scientific and descriptive process in which a solid substance gradually turns into a liquid, often by attracting moisture from the air. Finding the exact term for this process shows familiarity with higher level English vocabulary often used in science, literature, and formal writing.

Given Data / Assumptions:

- The phrase given is become liquid, typically during decomposition. - We must select one word that accurately captures this sense. - Four options are given: Deliquesce, Petrify, Cohere, Anneal. - Exactly one option must match the description.

Concept / Approach:
The key idea is a process where a solid turns into liquid as part of decomposition or by absorbing moisture. The technical term deliquesce refers to the process in which a substance absorbs moisture from the air until it dissolves and forms a solution. The other words relate to very different processes, so understanding each word helps eliminate incorrect choices and choose the most accurate substitute.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that deliquesce means to become liquid by absorbing moisture from the air, often seen in certain salts. Step 2: Note that petrify means to turn to stone or to make someone extremely frightened, which is opposite of becoming liquid. Step 3: Understand that cohere means to stick together or hold together as a unified whole. Step 4: Remember that anneal is a term from metallurgy that refers to heating and slowly cooling metal or glass to remove internal stresses. Step 5: Match the description become liquid, typically during decomposition with deliquesce and select it.

Verification / Alternative check:
Dictionaries define deliquesce as to melt or become liquid by absorbing moisture from the air, especially in relation to certain chemical compounds. This matches the description of becoming liquid during decomposition or exposure to moisture. None of the other words involve a change from solid to liquid, which confirms the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Petrify involves turning into stone or causing extreme fear, which is the opposite of liquefaction. Cohere describes sticking together, not dissolving. Anneal is related to heat treatment of metals or glass and does not involve decomposition into liquid form. Therefore, they cannot substitute the given phrase.

Common Pitfalls:
Students often confuse rare scientific or technical words or select options based on guesswork. To avoid such mistakes, it is useful to make personal vocabulary lists of advanced words and revise them with example sentences. Associating deliquesce with damp, melting salt or sugar imagery also helps memory.

Final Answer:
Deliquesce is the correct one word substitute for become liquid, typically during decomposition.