what does the passage about the water cycle explain

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What does the passage about the Water Cycle explain?

A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.
B. The water cycle is a continuous process of recycling water on Earth.
C. Rain is the most important part of the water cycle.
D. Evaporation is the final step in the water cycle.

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, starting with precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail) falling to the ground, followed by runoff, evaporation transforming liquid water into water vapor, and finally condensation turning water vapor back into liquid. Choice B is incorrect because it is too broad and doesn't specifically address the stages of the water cycle. Choice C is incorrect as rain is just one part of the water cycle and not the most important. Choice D is incorrect as evaporation is not the final step but one of the stages of the water cycle.

2. Which detail is not given as a side effect of NSAIDs?

A. Nausea
B. Headache
C. Weight loss
D. Dizziness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage lists several side effects of NSAIDs, including nausea, headache, and dizziness. However, weight loss is not mentioned as a side effect, making option C the correct choice since it does not align with the details provided in the text.

3. What fact is stated about the Amazon Rainforest in the passage?

A. The Amazon Rainforest is shrinking rapidly.
B. The Amazon Rainforest is home to diverse species.
C. The Amazon Rainforest is unaffected by human activity.
D. The Amazon Rainforest contains few animals.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The passage highlights the incredible biodiversity of the Amazon Rainforest, emphasizing its diverse species of plants and animals. The passage describes the rainforest as home to over 2,000 birds and mammals, with one in every five birds in the world living there. It also mentions the vast variety of insects, trees, and plants present in the rainforest, showcasing its rich ecosystem. Choice A is incorrect as the passage does not directly state that the Amazon Rainforest is shrinking rapidly, although it does mention the dangers it faces. Choice C is incorrect as the passage clearly indicates that human activity, such as deforestation, poses a significant threat to the rainforest. Choice D is incorrect as the passage provides evidence of a high number of animals inhabiting the Amazon Rainforest.

4. The author describes cosmetics in each of the following cultures EXCEPT ___________.

A. Greek
B. Egyptian
C. Roman
D. Native American

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The author provides descriptions of cosmetic practices in Greek, Egyptian, and Roman cultures but does not mention Native American practices regarding cosmetics. This absence of information about Native American culture leads to the conclusion that option D is correct since it reflects a lack of discussion on that specific culture.

5. What is the main idea of the passage about Sickle-Cell Anemia?

A. Bone pain is a symptom of sickle-cell anemia.
B. Sickle-cell anemia affects oxygen transport in the body.
C. Sickle-cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease.
D. Sickle-cell anemia is a painful, inherited disease.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The passage focuses on describing sickle-cell anemia as a painful and inherited disease. It details how the abnormal sickle-shaped cells cause symptoms like bone pain, fever, and fatigue. While bone pain is mentioned as a symptom, it is not the main idea of the passage. Choice A is incorrect. Choice B, which mentions oxygen transport, is not the main idea but a general concept. Choice C, stating genetically inherited diseases affect thousands, is too broad and does not focus on the specifics of sickle-cell anemia. Therefore, D is the most precise choice.