what does the word composed mean in the passage on the water cycle

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What does the word 'composed' mean in the passage on the Water Cycle?

A. To consist of.
B. To create.
C. To separate.
D. To destroy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the Water Cycle, 'composed' means 'to consist of' parts. For instance, water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Therefore, the correct meaning of 'composed' in this context is to consist of various components. Choice B, 'To create,' is incorrect as 'composed' refers to the makeup of something rather than the act of making or creating. Choices C and D, 'To separate' and 'To destroy,' are also incorrect as they do not align with the meaning of 'composed' in the passage.

2. What is the main idea of the passage about microbes?

A. Recent discoveries are revealing the critical role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system.
B. The human body is host to a staggering number of microorganisms.
C. Bacteriotherapy reintroduces healthy bacteria into a colon lacking the capability to defend against pathogenic agents.
D. Early research has shown remarkable discoveries in the possibilities of bacteriotherapy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main idea of the passage is that recent discoveries are shedding light on the pivotal role of microorganisms in maintaining a properly functioning immune system. The passage discusses how the human body hosts a wide array of microorganisms, emphasizes the importance of these bacteria in the development of the immune system, and explores the potential applications of bacteriotherapy. Choice A is the correct answer because it accurately reflects the central theme discussed in the passage. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they focus on specific details or applications mentioned in the passage, rather than capturing the overarching theme of the critical role of microorganisms in immune system function.

3. What is the author's main argument in the passage on the Electoral College?

A. The Electoral College ensures that all states have a say in elections.
B. The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform.
C. The Electoral College should be abolished.
D. The Electoral College was created to favor larger states.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The Electoral College is outdated and needs reform.' The passage discusses the Electoral College system, highlighting its complexities and the discrepancy between the popular vote and electoral vote outcomes. It mentions the confusion and the case of the 2000 election where the popular vote winner did not become president. The main argument is that the system is outdated and requires reforms to align with modern democratic principles. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not focus on ensuring all states have a say but rather on the need for reform. Choice C is not the main argument presented in the passage; while the passage mentions confusion, it does not explicitly call for abolition. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that the Electoral College was created to favor larger states; instead, it discusses the allocation of electoral votes based on Congressional representation and population.

4. Based on this passage, what can the reader infer about the advice physicians will give their pregnant patients about coffee consumption?

A. Almost all of them will advise women to stop drinking any caffeine until after the baby is born.
B. The majority will ignore the study altogether and continue to advise caffeine in moderation as before.
C. All of them will demand additional research be done before they change what they tell their patients.
D. Some will continue to make their normal recommendations about caffeine, while others will be more cautious than before.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage implies that there is variability in physician responses to the study about caffeine consumption. Some doctors may continue their standard recommendations, while others might advise more caution based on the new evidence. Therefore, option D reflects this variability in professional opinions and is the correct inference.

5. What statement about global warming is made in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. Global warming is caused by deforestation.
B. Global warming is unrelated to deforestation.
C. Global warming is exaggerated.
D. Global warming is not a concern.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement about global warming in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest is that it is caused by deforestation. The passage explains that cutting down trees in the rainforest increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, leading to global warming. This is supported by the fact that the burning of Brazilian rainforests alone produces 200 million metric tons of carbon dioxide a year. Choice B is incorrect as the passage clearly establishes a direct link between deforestation and global warming. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not suggest that global warming is exaggerated, but rather highlights the harmful effects of deforestation. Choice D is incorrect as the passage emphasizes the serious concern of global warming due to deforestation.