a reader might infer from this passage that the organization

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. A reader might infer from this passage that the organization ___________.

A. succeeded in eradicating malaria
B. has always been led by a medical doctor
C. no longer studies communicable diseases
D. changed its name to match its mission

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage never says whether or not the CDC succeeded in its original mission (choice A) or whether it continued to be led by doctors (choice B). Inferring either of those things would be a leap unsupported by the text. Choice C is countered by information in the final

2. What is the main idea of this passage?

A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation
B. Water cycle components include only evaporation and condensation
C. The water cycle includes precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation
D. The water cycle happens in the atmosphere only

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.' The passage explains the stages of the water cycle, which are precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail), runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice B is incorrect because the water cycle involves more than just evaporation and condensation. Choice C is incorrect as it includes an additional element, runoff, not mentioned as a primary component of the water cycle in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the water cycle involves processes both in the atmosphere and on the ground.

3. Which sound waves have a higher pitch?

A. Those waves that are closer together
B. Those waves that are farther apart
C. Those waves that travel a long distance
D. Those waves that travel a short distance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sound waves that are closer together have a higher pitch. This is explained by the Doppler Effect, where as a source of sound moves closer to an observer, the waves are compressed, resulting in a higher frequency and a higher pitch. Conversely, when the source moves away, the waves are stretched, leading to a lower frequency and a lower pitch. Therefore, choice A is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the relationship between sound wave frequency and pitch.

4. The author suggests that persistent passivity and imperturbability may be a direct result of which of the following?

A. Drug-induced stimulation of the amygdala.
B. A stroke that resulted in severe tissue damage in the limbic system.
C. Encephalitis as a result of head trauma.
D. Activation of a strategically implanted electrode in a patient’s amygdala.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage highlights that damage to the limbic system, specifically the amygdala, can lead to passivity and lack of aggression. This is supported by the statement that patients with trauma or damage to the amygdala exhibit a complete absence of aggression. Thus, a stroke causing severe tissue damage in the limbic system, including the amygdala, can result in persistent passivity and imperturbability. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly relate to damage in the limbic system, which is specifically mentioned in the passage as the cause of the described behaviors.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'technical' as it is used in the fourth paragraph?

A. requiring expert knowledge
B. incomplete
C. foreign
D. plagiarized

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: requiring expert knowledge.' In the context provided, 'technical' refers to articles that demand expert knowledge to understand. The passage mentions that articles published in medical journals can be technical, meaning they are complex and require specialized expertise to comprehend. Choice B, 'incomplete,' is incorrect as 'technical' does not imply incompleteness. Choices C and D, 'foreign' and 'plagiarized,' are also incorrect as they do not align with the context of the passage.