what does parameter mean

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Vocabulary

1. What does 'Parameter' mean?

A. A constant variable
B. A characteristic or constant factor
C. A measurable limit
D. A calculated risk

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'A characteristic or constant factor.' In the context of systems or experiments, a parameter is a fixed element that influences the behavior or outcome. It is not a variable like in choice A, which can change. Choice C, 'A measurable limit,' is incorrect as a parameter is not necessarily a physical limit but a defining factor. Choice D, 'A calculated risk,' is unrelated to the definition of a parameter.

2. If a theory is obsolete, what is true of it?

A. Up to date
B. Outdated
C. Innovative
D. Scientific

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Outdated.' When something is described as 'obsolete,' it means that it is outdated or no longer in use. Therefore, an obsolete theory is no longer current or relevant. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because an obsolete theory is not considered up to date, innovative, or necessarily scientific; it is outdated and no longer relevant in its field.

3. Select the word that means 'a violent seizure.'

A. revelation
B. nutrient
C. contraption
D. paroxysm

Correct answer: D

Rationale: 'Paroxysm' is the correct answer as it refers to a sudden, violent seizure or outburst. The other choices are incorrect because 'revelation' means a surprising and previously unknown fact, 'nutrient' refers to a substance that provides nourishment, and 'contraption' means a machine or device that is strange or unnecessarily complicated.

4. To aspirate fluid, you might use a ___________.

A. syringe
B. beaker
C. test tube
D. flange

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To aspirate fluid, you would typically use a syringe. A syringe is a device consisting of a tube and a plunger, which allows you to draw fluids such as blood or medication into the tube by pulling back on the plunger. This action is called aspiration, and the syringe is a common tool for this purpose in various medical procedures. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not typically used for aspiration procedures. A beaker is a glass container used for holding liquids, a test tube is used for holding or mixing small quantities of substances, and a flange is a projecting rim or edge used for strength or for attaching to another object.

5. What does the word Trepidation mean?

A. Fear
B. Misgivings
C. Confidence
D. Doubt

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Misgivings'. Trepidation is defined as a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen. Choice A ('Fear') is too broad and does not capture the specific sense of unease that trepidation conveys. Choice C ('Confidence') is the opposite of what trepidation represents. Choice D ('Doubt') is related to uncertainty but does not fully encapsulate the sense of fear and anxiety associated with trepidation.