Final answer:
The main verb in the sentence is are, with "Cheetahs" being the subject. The placement of the cheetah's limbs allows for powerful strides and quick acceleration, contributing to its status as the fastest land animal. The correct option is 1.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main verb in the sentence "Cheetahs are the fastest land animals with recorded speeds of over 70 miles per hour" is are. Cheetahs is the subject of the sentence, not the verb. The word fastest is an adjective describing the noun "animals," and land is also functioning as an adjective here. While animals is a noun, which is the object of the verb are.
When looking at the cheetah's locomotion, several factors allow it to be the fastest land mammal. The cheetah's limbs are highly mobile and are attached beneath its body, which is beneficial for speed. The specific placement of the limbs allows for powerful and extended strides for quick acceleration.
The cheetah can even change direction at high speeds due to its flexible spine and semi-retractable claws that provide extra grip. The correct option is 1.