how should a researcher test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology 2024

1. How should a researcher test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure?

A. Record the blood pressure of one male and one female participant before and after participating in a yoga class.
B. Divide 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure; test each participant’s blood pressure after participating in a yoga class.
C. Divide 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure; have one group watch television for an hour while the other takes a yoga class, record each participant’s blood pressure after the hour. Repeat daily for two weeks.
D. Start with 15 men and 15 women; have the men watch television for an hour while the women take a yoga class, record each participant’s blood pressure after the hour. Reverse, having the men take a yoga class while the women watch television.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Option B is the most appropriate way to test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure. By dividing 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure levels and testing each participant's blood pressure after participating in a yoga class, the researcher can effectively evaluate the impact of yoga on blood pressure. This design allows for a comparison between the two groups, helping to isolate the effects of yoga practice on blood pressure. Option A only involves one male and one female participant, which may not provide a representative sample. Option C introduces an additional variable of watching television, which could confound the results. Option D lacks consistency in the experimental design by switching the activities between men and women, making it difficult to attribute any observed changes solely to yoga practice.

2. Among the following elements, which is a nonmetal?

A. Mercury
B. Magnesium
C. Sulfur
D. Potassium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sulfur is a nonmetal as it is located on the right side of the periodic table. Nonmetals generally exhibit properties such as being brittle, poor conductors of heat and electricity, and having lower melting points compared to metals. Mercury (A), Magnesium (B), and Potassium (D) are all metals due to their metallic properties. Mercury is a liquid metal at room temperature, Magnesium is a solid metal, and Potassium is a solid metal as well. Therefore, the correct answer is C, Sulfur.

3. If a runner runs 5 miles in 45 minutes, what is their average speed in miles per hour?

A. 6.67 mph
B. 5 mph
C. 7 mph
D. 10 mph

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To find the average speed, first, convert 45 minutes to hours (45/60 = 0.75 hours). Then, divide the distance by the time: 5 miles ÷ 0.75 hours = 6.67 mph. Choice A is correct because it accurately calculates the average speed based on the distance covered and time taken. Choice B is incorrect as it does not consider the time taken to cover the distance. Choice C is incorrect as it is higher than the calculated speed. Choice D is incorrect as it is higher and does not match the calculated average speed.

4. Choose the meaning of the word 'distended' in the following sentence: 'The patient's distended veins were a cause for worry.'

A. Bleeding
B. Enlarged
C. Pressure
D. Minuscule

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The term 'distended' means swollen or enlarged. In this context, when the patient's veins are described as distended, it implies that they are expanded or swollen beyond their normal size, which can be a cause for worry due to potential health implications. Choice A ('Bleeding') is incorrect as 'distended' does not refer to bleeding but rather to being swollen. Choice C ('Pressure') is incorrect as 'distended' does not directly imply pressure but rather enlargement. Choice D ('Minuscule') is incorrect as 'distended' means the opposite of minuscule, indicating something enlarged or swollen.