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 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.

3. What is the meaning of the word 'deceptive' as it is used in the fifth paragraph?

A. misleading
B. malicious
C. illegal
D. irritating

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'deceptive' means misleading. The passage discusses how the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates product advertising to ensure that all information is truthful and not misleading. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: misleading.' Choice B, 'malicious,' is incorrect as it implies harmful intent, which is not necessarily conveyed by the term 'deceptive' in this context. Choice C, 'illegal,' is incorrect because 'deceptive' does not solely refer to something being against the law, but rather to misleading information. Choice D, 'irritating,' is also incorrect as it does not capture the essence of 'deceptive' as used in the passage.

4. How were white elephants regarded by the people of Siam?

A. If a village elder received a white elephant, the entire village shared in the supply of meat.
B. White elephants were highly prized as they were very hard workers in the cane fields.
C. The people of Siam vied for the honor of receiving the king's gift or a white elephant.
D. White elephants were a financial burden despite being considered sacred.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In the culture of Siam, white elephants were highly regarded as sacred and receiving one as a gift from the king was considered an honor. It was a symbol of prestige and status to receive the king's gift of a white elephant. Option A is incorrect as white elephants were not used for meat supply. Option B is also incorrect as white elephants were not prized for their work but rather for their symbolic value. Option D is partially correct but does not capture the full significance of white elephants in Siam.

5. The passage lists all of these benefits of omega-3s EXCEPT ___________.

A. Reduced blood pressure
B. Less risk of diabetes
C. Improved memory
D. Alleviated depression

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The passage mentions reduced blood pressure, improved memory, and alleviated depression as potential benefits of omega-3s but does not mention a reduced risk of diabetes.