Directions: In the following question, a target word is provided along with three sentences demonstrating its usage. Choose the option corresponding to the statement(s) in which the target word is used correctly in terms of both grammar and context. If none of the given sentences use the word correctly, select option (e), "None of these".

Ponder
(i) The research team will ponder the long-term environmental consequences before submitting the final proposal.
(ii) Despite facing a ponder amount of workload, the analyst managed to finish the project on schedule.
(iii) Critics ponder whether the newly implemented economic policy will achieve its intended objectives.

The correct option is both (i) and (iii).

Definition of 'Ponder':
The word ponder is a verb meaning to think about, consider, or deliberate on something carefully before making a decision or reaching a conclusion.

Analysis of the given sentences:
• Sentence (i): "The research team will ponder the long-term environmental consequences before submitting the final proposal."
Usage: Correct. The word 'ponder' is used properly as a verb meaning to carefully weigh or think about the environmental consequences.

• Sentence (ii): "Despite facing a ponder amount of workload, the analyst managed to finish the project on schedule."
Usage: Incorrect. The word 'ponder' is a verb and cannot modify the noun 'amount'. An adjective such as 'substantial' or 'ponderous' would be grammatically appropriate here.

• Sentence (iii): "Critics ponder whether the newly implemented economic policy will achieve its intended objectives."
Usage: Correct. Here, 'ponder' functions correctly as a verb expressing that critics are reflecting on or deliberating about the policy's potential success.

Therefore, the word is used correctly in both statements (i) and (iii).