what is the main idea of the passage about aromatherapyfact or fiction

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about Aromatherapy—Fact or Fiction?

A. Aromatherapy is not a legitimate therapy by anyone’s standards.
B. Lemon and lavender are not healthy scents to inhale or use.
C. More studies are needed to determine if aromatherapy is truly beneficial.
D. Adding aromatherapy to regular treatment will help speed healing.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main idea of the passage revolves around the skepticism regarding the efficacy of aromatherapy. The mention of needing more studies to determine its true benefits suggests that the current findings are inconclusive. This aligns with choice C, which reflects the need for further research to validate the claims associated with aromatherapy.

2. In context, the word 'defective' in the first sentence of the passage means which of the following?

A. Unusual
B. Remarkable
C. Postponed
D. Faulty

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context provided, 'defective' means faulty, referring to the gene that causes cystic fibrosis (CF). The passage explains that CF is caused by a defective gene, resulting in the production of abnormally thick and sticky fluid. The word 'defective' suggests that the gene is not functioning correctly, leading to the symptoms associated with the disease. Therefore, 'faulty' is the correct choice. The other options, 'unusual,' 'remarkable,' and 'postponed,' do not accurately capture the meaning of 'defective' in this context and are therefore incorrect.

3. What is the meaning of the word compelling as used in the passage about Sunny-Side Up?

A. Reasonable.
B. Convincing.
C. Common.
D. Worthwhile.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "compelling" refers to something that is convincing or persuasive. The passage presents a strong argument in favor of sunlight's benefits, particularly in relation to vitamin D synthesis. Therefore, B is the correct choice as it aligns with the author's intent to present a convincing argument.

4. What is the main idea of this passage?

A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation
B. Water cycle components include only evaporation and condensation
C. The water cycle includes precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation
D. The water cycle happens in the atmosphere only

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, which are precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail), runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice B is incorrect because the water cycle involves more than just evaporation and condensation. Choice C is incorrect as it includes an additional element, runoff, not mentioned as a primary component of the water cycle in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the water cycle involves processes both in the atmosphere and on the ground.

5. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader in the passage about Hypertension?

A. Maintaining a healthy weight may help to prevent hypertension.
B. There is presently no reliable treatment for hypertension.
C. Your ethnicity may contribute to your risk for hypertension.
D. A 60-year-old is more likely to have hypertension than a teenager is.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage clearly states that there are treatments for hypertension, so the statement that there is presently no reliable treatment for hypertension cannot be inferred from the text. Choice A can be inferred from paragraph 3 where it mentions losing weight to decrease blood pressure. Choice C can be inferred from paragraph 1 where it states that African Americans are more likely to have hypertension. Choice D can be inferred from paragraph 2 where it explains that older people are most often diagnosed with hypertension due to changes in blood vessels as they age.