choose the best summary of the passage about high fructose corn syrup

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. Choose the best summary of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup.

A. After extensive studies, scientists recommend removing HFCS from grocery products.
B. A recent study on rats confirms suspicions that HFCS contributes to unhealthful weight gains.
C. Until more research is done, using HFCS is preferable to replacing it with refined sugar.
D. Avoiding HFCS can have immediate, healthful results on overweight patients, as suggested by the AMA.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The best summary of the passage is choice B. The passage discusses concerns about the impact of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) on health, particularly its link to obesity. It mentions a recent study on rats that confirms suspicions about HFCS contributing to unhealthful weight gains. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they introduce recommendations or implications not explicitly mentioned in the passage. Choice A goes beyond the information by stating that scientists recommend removing HFCS from grocery products, choice C suggests that using HFCS is preferable until more research is done, and choice D implies immediate healthful results on overweight patients by avoiding HFCS, as suggested by the AMA, which is not supported by the passage.

2. How does insomnia affect intellectual abilities?

A. Causes a deficit in memory, concentration, and attention.
B. Improves mental alertness.
C. Boosts concentration levels.
D. Has no effect on intellectual abilities.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Insomnia affects intellectual abilities by causing a deficit in memory, concentration, and attention. The passage highlights that lack of sleep impacts memory, attention, and concentration, leading to feelings of irritation or depression. Therefore, choice A is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the negative impact insomnia has on intellectual abilities as described in the passage.

3. What is the author's primary purpose for writing the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. To entertain readers with facts about the rainforest.
B. To inform readers about the deforestation of the Amazon.
C. To persuade readers to visit the Amazon Rainforest.
D. To criticize the farming practices in the Amazon.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing the passage on the Amazon Rainforest is to inform readers about the deforestation and environmental challenges facing the Amazon. The passage provides detailed information about the Amazon Rainforest, its biodiversity, the impact of deforestation on the environment, and the dangers associated with the destruction of the rainforest. Choice A is incorrect because the author's goal is not to entertain but to educate readers. Choice C is incorrect as there is no persuasive language used to encourage readers to visit the Amazon Rainforest. Choice D is also incorrect as the passage does not focus on criticizing farming practices but rather on highlighting the environmental threats and consequences of deforestation.

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 of the following statements is a fact?

A. Nurses should watch for jaundice in newborns.
B. Untreated jaundice may cause brain damage.
C. Phototherapy blankets are a valuable invention.
D. Avoid neonatal units that lack phototherapy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Untreated jaundice may cause brain damage.' This statement is a fact supported by the passage. Neonatal jaundice, if left untreated, can lead to brain damage due to excess bilirubin levels in the blood. Choice A is not a fact but a general guideline for nurses. Choice C is an opinion as it describes phototherapy blankets as valuable without citing a specific fact. Choice D is not a fact but a recommendation, advising to avoid neonatal units lacking phototherapy.