what is the main idea of the passage about high fructose corn syrup

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup?

A. The passage discusses the potential health risks associated with consuming HFCS.
B. High fructose corn syrup may be contributing to obesity.
C. Manufacturing process of HFCS involves a chemical process.
D. Rats prefer high fructose corn syrup over other sweeteners.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main idea of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup is that it may be contributing to obesity in America. This is evident from the information provided in the extract, which discusses how HFCS has been linked to health issues, including obesity. Choice A is incorrect because the passage primarily focuses on the potential health risks associated with HFCS consumption, not just the examination by the American Medical Association. Choice C is irrelevant as it only talks about the manufacturing process of HFCS, which is not the central theme of the passage. Choice D is incorrect as it emphasizes the preference of rats for HFCS, which is a minor point compared to the potential impact on human health, particularly in relation to obesity.

2. What is the meaning of the word innocuous as used in the first paragraph?

A. Undiscovered
B. Harmless
C. Imperceptible
D. Purposeless

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word "innocuous" in this context means harmless, indicating that most nail abnormalities are not dangerous.

3. Which claim from the passage best describes the benefits of nanotechnology?

A. Scientists can develop novel technologies and products.
B. Nanotechnology is defined as the understanding and control of matter at dimensions of roughly 1 to 100 nanometers.
C. The different colors can be used in simple medical tests to indicate infection or disease.
D. Unique properties of materials emerge.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the passage specifically states that at the nanoscale, unique properties of materials emerge, which is a key benefit of nanotechnology. Choice A talks about what scientists can do but does not directly describe the benefits mentioned in the passage. Choice B is the definition of nanotechnology and not a specific benefit. Choice C mentions the use of different colors in medical tests, which is a specific application rather than a general benefit of nanotechnology.

4. The passage mentions all of these uses for microscopy EXCEPT ___________.

A. Ear surgery
B. Amputations
C. Vasectomies
D. Reconstructions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage discusses various uses of microscopy in surgery, including ear surgery, amputations, and reconstructions. However, vasectomies are not mentioned as an application of microscopy in the text. Therefore, vasectomies are the exception among the listed uses. Choices A, B, and D are supported by details in the extract, making them incorrect answers. The passage highlights the uses of microscopy in delicate ear operations, repairing blood vessels in partially amputated limbs, and improving breast reconstructions. While vasectomies are mentioned briefly in the extract, they are not connected to the application of microscopy in the context of surgeries.

5. What statement can be implied from the content of the article?

A. Diversity is interesting to learn about.
B. Everyone should learn to use chopsticks.
C. European methods of eating are the best.
D. Space travel has made eating easier.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement that can be implied from the content of the article is that diversity is interesting to learn about. The passage discusses different cultural methods of eating, highlighting the value of discovering these differences and learning new ways to do things. Choice B is incorrect as it focuses on a specific eating tool without capturing the broader message of cultural diversity. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests a superiority of European methods without considering the value of diversity. Choice D is incorrect as the passage mentions that space travel has created new challenges for consuming food, not necessarily making eating easier.