what does the word suit mean in the passage about bridge

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What does the word 'suit' mean in the passage about Bridge?

A. A set of clothing to be worn together.
B. Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.
C. To request or appeal persistently.
D. To be convenient or right for.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Any of the four sets into which a deck of cards is divided.' In the context of card games like Bridge, 'suit' refers to one of the four divisions of a deck of cards - spades, hearts, diamonds, or clubs. Each suit contains cards of different ranks, and during the game, players must follow suit if possible, meaning they must play a card of the same suit that was led. This is crucial for understanding card hierarchy and gameplay in Bridge. Choice A is incorrect because it defines 'suit' in terms of clothing, which is not relevant to the context of the passage. Choice C is incorrect as it defines 'suit' as a verb meaning to request persistently, which is unrelated to the card game. Choice D is also incorrect as it defines 'suit' as an adjective meaning to be convenient or right for, which is not the meaning intended in the passage about Bridge.

2. What is the meaning of the word impoverished in the first paragraph?

A. Honored
B. Nobility
C. Rich
D. financially weakened

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'impoverished' typically refers to a state of extreme poverty or being financially ruined. In the context of the first paragraph, where it is used to describe the condition of a certain group of people, it indicates that they are lacking in financial resources or are in a state of deprivation. Choice A 'Honored' is incorrect as it has a positive connotation opposite to the negative meaning of 'impoverished.' Choice B 'Nobility' is incorrect as it refers to a high social rank or class, which is unrelated to the financial state implied by 'impoverished.' Choice C 'Rich' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'impoverished,' denoting wealth and abundance, not financial weakness.

3. What role does water vapor play in the Water Cycle, as described in the passage?

A. Water vapor is unnecessary in the water cycle.
B. Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.
C. Water vapor is harmful to the environment.
D. Water vapor cools the Earth's surface.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.' The passage clearly outlines the importance of water vapor in the water cycle. It explains that water vapor returns to the air from surface water and plants, and condenses back into droplets of liquid, forming clouds. These clouds eventually lead to precipitation like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Choice A is incorrect as water vapor is crucial in the water cycle. Choice C is also incorrect as there is no mention of water vapor being harmful in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that water vapor cools the Earth's surface; instead, it highlights its role in the formation of precipitation.

4. What is implied about Benjamin Franklin in the passage on Daylight Savings Time?

A. Benjamin Franklin opposed the idea of Daylight Savings Time.
B. Benjamin Franklin was the first to implement Daylight Savings Time.
C. Benjamin Franklin proposed the idea of Daylight Savings Time.
D. Benjamin Franklin had no role in Daylight Savings Time.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage states that Benjamin Franklin first suggested the introduction of Daylight Savings Time in the 18th century. However, the first serious proposal came in 1907 from William Willet. Franklin's idea was not implemented during his lifetime, but he did propose the concept. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because Franklin did not oppose the idea. Choice B is incorrect because he was not the first to implement it. Choice D is incorrect because he did have a role in proposing the idea.

5. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.