what is the best definition of efficient as used in the third paragraph

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension Practice Test

1. What is the best definition of 'efficient' as used in the third paragraph?

A. Slow but steady.
B. Productive without waste.
C. Wasteful and careless.
D. Quick but sloppy.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct definition of 'efficient' in the third paragraph is 'Productive without waste.' In the extract provided, it discusses how different cultures developed tools like cutlery and chopsticks to efficiently eat food. Efficiency here refers to getting something done with the least amount of waste. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately capture the concept of efficiency discussed in the passage.

2. Which of the following is not listed as a detail in the passage about A Short History of the CDC?

A. Where the organization began.
B. Who first ran the organization.
C. When the organization changed its name.
D. What divisions make up the current CDC.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage does not provide specific details about the divisions that currently make up the CDC. Instead, it focuses on the organization's historical context, original goals, and overall mission. Thus, D is correct as it identifies information not covered in the passage.

3. What is the meaning of the word leached as used in the last paragraph?

A. Sucked
B. Compressed
C. Seeped
D. Materialized

Correct answer: C

Rationale: "Leached" refers to the process by which substances, such as lead, seep or dissolve out of materials, in this case, water pipes.

4. In the passage the word embark means to:

A. Remove the covering from a tree
B. Speak harshly to others
C. Entertain the reader
D. Put or go on board a ship

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'embark' typically means to board a ship or begin a journey. In this context, it means to start or set out on a new undertaking or venture, often including the act of boarding a ship. In the provided passage about the Golden Gate Bridge, it is mentioned that builders, architects, and workers embarked on the challenge of building a bridge across the Golden Gate Strait, which refers to them starting this new undertaking. Therefore, the correct definition of 'embark' is D. Put or go on board a ship. The other choices are incorrect: A. Removing the covering from a tree is unrelated to the context of the passage. B. Speaking harshly to others and C. Entertaining the reader are also irrelevant to the meaning of 'embark' in this context.

5. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.