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. Which sentence uses the correct form of the verb?

A. She has completed the project
B. She has completed the project
C. She has been completed the project
D. She has completed the project

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'She has completed the project.' The sentence uses the present perfect tense with 'has completed,' which is the correct form of the verb. Choice A is incorrect due to the subject-verb agreement error ('She' requires 'has' instead of 'have'). Choice C is incorrect as it changes the meaning by using the passive voice 'has been completed' instead of the active voice. Choice D is incorrect as 'complete' should be 'completed' to match the present perfect tense.

3. Which phrase should be moved to improve sentence clarity? 'He opened the door slowly, trying not to wake the baby.'

A. 'Trying not to wake the baby,' he slowly opened the door
B. 'He opened the door,' trying not to wake the baby
C. 'He opened the door slowly,' trying not to wake the baby
D. 'Slowly trying not to wake the baby,' he opened the door

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Placing 'trying not to wake the baby' at the beginning as in option A clarifies the purpose of the action right away, improving the sentence's flow.

4. Select the meaning of the word 'symmetric' in the sentence: 'The symmetric patterns of scarring were evident on the patient's back.'

A. scabbed
B. painful
C. corresponding
D. geometric

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this context, 'symmetric' refers to patterns that correspond or are balanced on both sides, exhibiting symmetry. The scarring on the patient's back displayed a mirrored or corresponding arrangement. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because 'symmetric' does not mean scabbed, painful, or geometric in this sentence.

5. What is the meaning of pernicious?

A. Harmless
B. Destructive
C. Infectious
D. Helpful

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Destructive.' Pernicious means causing great harm or damage. Choice A, 'Harmless,' is the opposite of pernicious. Choice C, 'Infectious,' refers to the ability of a disease to spread. Choice D, 'Helpful,' is also the opposite of pernicious and does not capture the negative connotation associated with the term.