as used in the second paragraph what does the term ubiquitous mean

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. As used in the second paragraph, what does the term ubiquitous mean?

A. Indigenous
B. Often ignored
C. Found everywhere
D. Dangerous

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Found everywhere.' Ubiquitous in this context means widespread presence. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that MRSA bacteria have become ubiquitous not only in hospitals but also in various other settings, indicating they are found everywhere. Choice A, 'Indigenous,' is incorrect as it refers to something native or originating from a specific place, which is not the intended meaning in the context. Choice B, 'Often ignored,' is incorrect as ubiquitous means something that is widely present, not something that is ignored. Choice D, 'Dangerous,' is incorrect as ubiquitous does not directly imply danger, but rather the widespread presence of something.

2. What role does water vapor play in the Water Cycle, as described in the passage?

A. Water vapor is unnecessary in the water cycle.
B. Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.
C. Water vapor is harmful to the environment.
D. Water vapor cools the Earth's surface.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.' The passage clearly outlines the importance of water vapor in the water cycle. It explains that water vapor returns to the air from surface water and plants, and condenses back into droplets of liquid, forming clouds. These clouds eventually lead to precipitation like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Choice A is incorrect as water vapor is crucial in the water cycle. Choice C is also incorrect as there is no mention of water vapor being harmful in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that water vapor cools the Earth's surface; instead, it highlights its role in the formation of precipitation.

3. Choose the best summary of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup.

A. After extensive studies, scientists recommend removing HFCS from grocery products.
B. A recent study on rats confirms suspicions that HFCS contributes to unhealthful weight gains.
C. Until more research is done, using HFCS is preferable to replacing it with refined sugar.
D. Avoiding HFCS can have immediate, healthful results on overweight patients, as suggested by the AMA.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best summary of the passage is choice B. The passage discusses concerns about the impact of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) on health, particularly its link to obesity. It mentions a recent study on rats that confirms suspicions about HFCS contributing to unhealthful weight gains. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they introduce recommendations or implications not explicitly mentioned in the passage. Choice A goes beyond the information by stating that scientists recommend removing HFCS from grocery products, choice C suggests that using HFCS is preferable until more research is done, and choice D implies immediate healthful results on overweight patients by avoiding HFCS, as suggested by the AMA, which is not supported by the passage.

4. In the passage the word embark means to:

A. Remove the covering from a tree
B. Speak harshly to others
C. Entertain the reader
D. Put or go on board a ship

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'embark' typically means to board a ship or begin a journey. In this context, it means to start or set out on a new undertaking or venture, often including the act of boarding a ship. In the provided passage about the Golden Gate Bridge, it is mentioned that builders, architects, and workers embarked on the challenge of building a bridge across the Golden Gate Strait, which refers to them starting this new undertaking. Therefore, the correct definition of 'embark' is D. Put or go on board a ship. The other choices are incorrect: A. Removing the covering from a tree is unrelated to the context of the passage. B. Speaking harshly to others and C. Entertaining the reader are also irrelevant to the meaning of 'embark' in this context.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'phenomenon' in the second paragraph?

A. Something that is lifeless to the senses
B. Something that is nonchalant
C. Something that is significant but unusual
D. Something that is chemical in origin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context of the second paragraph, 'phenomenon' refers to something significant and unusual, specifically describing the scientific phenomenon known as the Doppler Effect. This effect explains the change in frequency of sound waves when a source of sound and the observer are in relative motion. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately reflect the meaning of 'phenomenon' in this context. 'Lifeless to the senses,' 'nonchalant,' and 'chemical in origin' do not align with the description of the Doppler Effect, which is a notable and uncommon scientific occurrence.