what conclusion can be drawn from the passage on the amazon rainforest

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. 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.

2. What is the subject of the passage?

A. foodborne illnesses
B. the dangers of uncooked food
C. bacteria
D. proper food preparation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'foodborne illnesses.' The passage discusses how foodborne illnesses are contracted by consuming contaminated food or beverages, the symptoms they can cause, common sources of contamination like bacteria, viruses, and chemicals, and preventive measures. While the passage mentions dangers associated with uncooked food, bacteria, and proper food preparation, the primary focus is on foodborne illnesses caused by various contaminants. Choice B, 'the dangers of uncooked food,' is incorrect as it is a narrower focus compared to the broader topic of foodborne illnesses. Choice C, 'bacteria,' is incorrect as it is one of the contaminants discussed in relation to foodborne illnesses but not the central subject of the passage. Choice D, 'proper food preparation,' is incorrect as it is mentioned in the passage but not as the main subject; rather, it is discussed as a preventive measure to avoid foodborne illnesses.

3. Which sound waves have a higher pitch?

A. Those waves that are closer together
B. Those waves that are farther apart
C. Those waves that travel a long distance
D. Those waves that travel a short distance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sound waves that are closer together have a higher pitch. This is explained by the Doppler Effect, where as a source of sound moves closer to an observer, the waves are compressed, resulting in a higher frequency and a higher pitch. Conversely, when the source moves away, the waves are stretched, leading to a lower frequency and a lower pitch. Therefore, choice A is correct. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the relationship between sound wave frequency and pitch.

4. What is implied by the author's mention of the Kayapo people in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. The Kayapo people destroy the environment for farming.
B. The Kayapo people farm in an environmentally friendly way.
C. The Kayapo people contribute to deforestation.
D. The Kayapo people hunt animals for survival.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The mention of the Kayapo people in the passage highlights how they farm in an environmentally friendly manner. Instead of using chemicals, they enrich the soil by burning wood and plant banana trees, attracting wasps that feed on harmful insects. This sustainable farming practice showcases their efforts to coexist with the rainforest ecosystem without causing harm. The other choices are incorrect: A is refuted by the passage as the Kayapo people are described as farming in an environmentally friendly way, C is incorrect as the passage does not mention the Kayapo people contributing to deforestation, and D is not supported by the text as there is no mention of the Kayapo people hunting animals for survival.

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.