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.

What is the meaning of the word disparate as used in the first paragraph?

• A. Unusual
• B. Diverse
• C. Trivial
• D. Damaging

Correct Answer: B
Rationale: "Disparate" means diverse or different. The passage discusses how Lyme disease has various symptoms that mimic other diseases, making it difficult to diagnose.

What conclusion can be drawn from the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

• A. The Amazon Rainforest is shrinking at a rapid pace.
• B. The Amazon Rainforest is not affected by human activity.
• C. The Amazon Rainforest will survive indefinitely.
• D. The Amazon Rainforest has no significant impact on global warming.

Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct conclusion that can be drawn from the passage on the Amazon Rainforest is that it is shrinking at a rapid pace. The passage explicitly mentions the rapid deforestation and shrinking of the Amazon Rainforest due to human activities like logging and burning. This conclusion is supported by the alarming statistics provided, such as 9,169 square miles of forest being cut down in Brazil in 2003, and an area of rainforest the size of a football field being burned down every minute. This rapid destruction poses a significant threat to the survival of the Amazon Rainforest and its biodiversity. Choice B is incorrect as the passage clearly states that human activities are causing harm to the rainforest. Choice C is incorrect because the passage highlights the current dangers and threats faced by the Amazon Rainforest, indicating that its survival is at risk. Choice D is also incorrect as the passage clearly explains the significant impact of deforestation in the Amazon Rainforest on global warming due to the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

What is the meaning of the word 'elasticity' in the last paragraph?

• A. Something that is able to resist and be flexible
• B. Something that is like plastic
• C. Something that is dynamic and electrifying
• D. Something that is silly

Correct Answer: A
Rationale: 'Elasticity' refers to the ability of the arterial walls to resist and be flexible, which affects blood pressure. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that an increase in blood pressure can occur if the arterial walls lose some of their elasticity with age or disease. This demonstrates that elasticity refers to the property of being able to resist and be flexible, supporting choice A as the correct answer. The other choices, B, C, and D, do not accurately reflect the concept of elasticity in the context of arterial walls and blood pressure.

Which of the following is a conclusion that a reader can draw from this passage?

• A. Humans are not the only mammals that exhibit symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi.
• B. The life cycle of an uninfected tick includes a dormant phase before the nymph stage, which is not excluded.
• C. Unless a tick feeds on an infected mouse or squirrel, it will not spread Lyme disease.
• D. The combination of fever, headache, and joint pain is not a definite indication of Lyme disease.

Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The passage clearly states that for Lyme disease to spread, a tick must feed on an infected host, such as a mouse or squirrel. This conclusion can be drawn from the information provided in the extract. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not specify that humans are the only mammals that exhibit symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi. Choice B is incorrect as the passage mentions that the life cycle of an uninfected tick includes a dormant phase before the nymph stage, without excluding it. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not state that the combination of fever, headache, and joint pain is a definitive sign of Lyme disease.