Final answer:
The likely outcome of the mayoral election in the absence of any candidates is either the election will be canceled or the city will appoint an interim mayor.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the absence of any candidates for city office, the likely outcome of the mayoral election is that the election will be canceled (c) or the city will appoint an interim mayor (b).
If there are no candidates running for the mayoral position, it is unlikely that the election can proceed as usual. In such cases, the city may choose to appoint an interim mayor until candidates come forward or the position is filled through other means. Alternatively, if no candidates are available, the election may be canceled until suitable candidates are found.