choose the best summary of the passage about microbes

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Choose the best summary of the passage about microbes.

A. Scientists have discovered the importance of certain bacteria for a well-functioning immune system, especially in defending against pathogens. The colonization of microbes in the body begins at birth, with the immune system relying on these bacteria for proper function.
B. The passage discusses the role of bacteria in the development of the human immune system. It highlights that the body supports various microorganisms crucial for immunity, starting from birth. The presence of harmless bacteria is essential for the immune system to work effectively.
C. The body hosts a vast number of microorganisms critical for immune system development. Harmless bacteria are necessary for the immune system to defend against pathogens effectively. Early research shows promising results in fecal bacteriotherapy for restoring the immune system's ability to fight off harmful invaders.
D. Microbes play a pivotal role in human health, particularly in immune system development. The introduction of healthy bacteria is essential for the immune system to function correctly. Fecal bacteriotherapy is a novel approach to reintroducing beneficial bacteria into a compromised colon to enhance immune response.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage emphasizes the importance of certain bacteria for a properly functioning immune system. It discusses how harmless bacteria play a crucial role in defending the body against pathogens. Choice A is incorrect as it focuses on the immune system's response to certain types of bacteria in lower organisms, not the overall importance of bacteria for immunity. Choice B is incorrect as it mainly discusses bacteriotherapy in relation to the reconstruction of a damaged colon, rather than the broader role of bacteria in immune system health. Choice D is incorrect as it only talks about the process of replacing harmful bacteria with harmless ones, missing the key point about the necessity of certain bacteria for immune system function.

2. Which part of the bridge was built first?

A. Cables
B. Roadway
C. Sidewalks
D. Towers

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Roadway. In the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, as with many bridges, the roadway was built first. The roadway provides the foundation and support for the rest of the structure, allowing vehicles and pedestrians to access the bridge. The construction process typically starts with the roadway to establish a base before moving on to other components like cables, towers, and sidewalks. Therefore, the roadway is an essential initial component in bridge construction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because, according to the provided extract, the anchorages were built first, followed by the towers, cables, and finally, the completion of the roadway. This sequence highlights the significance of establishing the structural support before the construction of other elements of the bridge.

3. What is the meaning of the word composed in the first paragraph?

A. To consist of
B. To break apart
C. To mix with other elements
D. To heat up

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word 'composed' means to be made up of or to consist of something. In the provided extract, it describes how a single drop of water is composed of an oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is 'To consist of.' Choice B, 'To break apart,' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'composed.' Choice C, 'To mix with other elements,' is incorrect as 'composed' refers to being made up of specific components, not mixed with others. Choice D, 'To heat up,' is unrelated to the meaning of 'composed' in this context.

4. Which of the following statements is an opinion related to Hypertension?

A. Obese people are at risk for hypertension.
B. Losing weight can decrease blood pressure.
C. Older people must pay attention to their blood pressure.
D. Blurred vision or dizziness may be a sign of hypertension.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A statement of fact can be proved or checked. A statement of opinion is what someone thinks or believes. In this case, statements A, B, and D could be proved scientifically, but statement C is simply a suggestion. While it is advisable for older people to monitor their blood pressure due to the increased risk associated with aging, the statement itself is an opinion because it suggests what older people 'must' do, which is a subjective viewpoint rather than a verifiable fact. Statements A, B, and D provide factual information supported by scientific evidence, making them statements of fact rather than opinion.

5. Why does the author mention 'impact craters' in line 16?

A. To explain the corrosive effects of atmospheric weathering
B. To explain why the Moon has no plant life because of meteorites
C. To show the result of the Moon not having an atmosphere
D. To show the result of the Moon not having active tectonic or volcanic activity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The mention of impact craters in the text is to highlight the consequence of the Moon lacking an atmosphere. The absence of an atmosphere on the Moon leaves it vulnerable to meteorite impacts, resulting in the multitude of impact craters on its surface. Choice A is incorrect because the mention of impact craters is not related to atmospheric weathering but rather to the lack of an atmosphere. Choice B is incorrect as it misinterprets the reason for the absence of plant life on the Moon. Choice D is incorrect as the text explicitly states that the Moon lacks tectonic or volcanic activity, which is not the focus of the mention of impact craters.