the word lethargy as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension

1. The word lethargy as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. Sluggishness
B. Irritability
C. Energy
D. Starvation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'lethargy' refers to a state of sluggishness or lack of energy. The passage mentions that people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) struggle with lethargy and chronic fatigue, impairing their daily lives. Therefore, the correct definition of 'lethargy' in this context is 'sluggishness.' Choice B, 'Irritability,' is incorrect as lethargy refers more to a lack of energy than to being irritable. Choice C, 'Energy,' is the opposite of lethargy. Choice D, 'Starvation,' is unrelated to the definition of lethargy in this context.

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

A. Chance
B. Persistence
C. Foreboding
D. Expertise

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word "serendipity" refers to a fortunate coincidence or chance, describing how Beto Pérez invented Zumba accidentally.

3. What was the most dangerous part of building the Golden Gate Bridge?

A. Balancing the road to prevent collapse.
B. Constructing the towers due to their height.
C. Suspending the cables with difficulty.
D. Ensuring the critical balance of the bridge.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most dangerous part of building the Golden Gate Bridge, as mentioned in the passage, was keeping the road balanced to prevent it from collapsing. While constructing the towers and suspending the cables were challenging tasks, the passage specifically highlights the balancing of the bridge as the most treacherous aspect of the construction. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the primary danger emphasized in the passage.

4. What is the meaning of the word viable as used in the last paragraph?

A. Reasonable
B. Unresolved
C. Contemporary
D. Consistent

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the passage, "viable" means reasonable or feasible, referring to the acceptability of acupuncture as a treatment option based on the study's results. This definition aligns with the implications made in the conclusion of the study, thus supporting option A.

5. 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.