what does the passage about the water cycle explain

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What does the passage about the Water Cycle explain?

A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.
B. The water cycle is a continuous process of recycling water on Earth.
C. Rain is the most important part of the water cycle.
D. Evaporation is the final step in the water cycle.

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, starting with precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) falling to the ground, followed by runoff, evaporation transforming liquid water into water vapor, and finally condensation turning water vapor back into liquid. Choice B is incorrect because it is too broad and doesn't specifically address the stages of the water cycle. Choice C is incorrect as rain is just one part of the water cycle and not the most important. Choice D is incorrect as evaporation is not the final step but one of the stages of the water cycle.

2. What is the meaning of the word tolerance as used in the last paragraph about Yoga?

A. Open-mindedness.
B. Approval.
C. Endurance.
D. Generosity.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this context, "tolerance" refers to the capacity to endure discomfort, particularly in relation to pain during yoga practices. The passage discusses how yoga improves pain tolerance, emphasizing the ability to withstand discomfort rather than any other meanings associated with the term, such as open-mindedness or approval.

3. What is the meaning of the word exposed as used in the first paragraph about Toxins and Your Health?

A. Uncovered.
B. Subjected.
C. Visible.
D. Divulged.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "exposed" means to be subjected to harmful elements. It suggests vulnerability to these toxins, which can lead to serious health issues later in life. The other options do not accurately capture the implications of "exposed" in relation to toxic substances, making B the correct choice.

4. What is the best title for the passage on bicycles?

A. Bicycles Are Better.
B. Cycle Your Way to Fitness.
C. A Ride through the History of Bicycles.
D. The Popularity of Bicycles.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'A Ride through the History of Bicycles.' This title best captures the passage's focus on the historical development and evolution of the bicycle from its invention to its modern form. Choice A, 'Bicycles Are Better,' is too general and doesn't encompass the historical aspect discussed in the passage. Choice B, 'Cycle Your Way to Fitness,' focuses solely on the fitness aspect of bicycles, ignoring the broader historical context. Choice D, 'The Popularity of Bicycles,' touches on one aspect but does not encompass the comprehensive historical journey presented in the passage.

5. Which statement from the selection presents a fact rather than an opinion?

A. One of the worst voice qualities is harshness
B. Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw
C. Your voice will sound unpleasant if it is shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, too loud, or too nasal
D. Because tension occurs in higher pitched voices, women tend to have shriller voices than men, which usually makes them less desirable public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.