what is the meaning of the word diminished as used in the passage about concussions

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the meaning of the word diminished as used in the passage about Concussions?

A. Miniature.
B. Reduced.
C. Recurrent.
D. Hollow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, "diminished" means reduced. Substituting the other choices into the sentence does not make sense contextually, whereas "reduced" fits appropriately, confirming B as the correct answer.

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

A. Cure rate
B. Incubation period
C. Remainder
D. Commencement

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this context, "onset" refers to the beginning or commencement of dementia symptoms. The term is used to indicate when the disease first becomes noticeable in patients, making option D the correct choice.

3. What is the author’s primary purpose in writing this essay about microbes?

A. To persuade
B. To inform
C. To entertain
D. To analyze

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author's primary purpose is to inform readers about the crucial role of microorganisms in the immune system. The essay focuses on presenting factual information and recent discoveries regarding the impact of microbes on human health. The author aims to educate the readers on the significance of microbes in human health rather than persuade them of a particular viewpoint (Choice A), entertain them with light-hearted content (Choice C), or analyze in-depth data and findings (Choice D). The essay's emphasis on informing readers about the role of microorganisms in the immune system makes 'To inform' the correct choice.

4. Which of the following describes the purpose of the passage?

A. To describe the causes of cystic fibrosis
B. To explain how cystic fibrosis is passed down through families
C. To provide an overview of CF and how it is inherited
D. To review why some Americans have CF, but others do not

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage aims to provide an overview of cystic fibrosis (CF) and how it is inherited. It explains that CF is passed down through families due to a defective gene, detailing how this gene affects the body and who is most commonly affected by the disease. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the passage does not solely focus on describing the causes of CF, explaining how it is passed down through families, or reviewing why some Americans have CF while others do not. Instead, it provides a broader perspective on CF and its inheritance.

5. What is the meaning of the word 'sterile' as it is used in the second paragraph?

A. free of bacteria
B. healthy
C. delicious
D. impotent

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'sterile' means free of bacteria. The text mentions that raw foods are not sterile and can be a common source of foodborne illnesses due to contamination with harmful bacteria. 'Healthy' (choice B) is incorrect as the term 'sterile' specifically refers to the absence of bacteria, not overall health. 'Delicious' (choice C) is irrelevant to the context of bacteria contamination. 'Impotent' (choice D) is also incorrect as it does not relate to the concept of being free from bacteria.