what is the main idea of the passage about high fructose corn syrup

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension Practice Test HESI A2

1. What is the main idea of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup?

A. The passage discusses the potential health risks associated with consuming HFCS.
B. High fructose corn syrup may be contributing to obesity.
C. Manufacturing process of HFCS involves a chemical process.
D. Rats prefer high fructose corn syrup over other sweeteners.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main idea of the passage about High Fructose Corn Syrup is that it may be contributing to obesity in America. This is evident from the information provided in the extract, which discusses how HFCS has been linked to health issues, including obesity. Choice A is incorrect because the passage primarily focuses on the potential health risks associated with HFCS consumption, not just the examination by the American Medical Association. Choice C is irrelevant as it only talks about the manufacturing process of HFCS, which is not the central theme of the passage. Choice D is incorrect as it emphasizes the preference of rats for HFCS, which is a minor point compared to the potential impact on human health, particularly in relation to obesity.

2. 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.

3. Which statement would not be inferred by the reader?

A. Some forms of phototherapy have been around for decades.
B. New applications of phototherapy continue to be developed.
C. Phototherapy is most often used to treat skin problems.
D. Ultraviolet rays can cause damage to eyes and skin.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. While the passage extensively discusses the benefits and applications of phototherapy, it does not mention that ultraviolet rays can cause damage to eyes and skin. This statement goes beyond the information provided in the passage and cannot be inferred. A. The passage mentions that phototherapy has been around for more than a century, supporting the statement that some forms of phototherapy have been around for decades. B. The passage discusses how new applications of phototherapy, like the phototherapy blanket, are being developed, making this statement valid as it aligns with the information provided. C. Phototherapy being most often used to treat skin problems is supported by the passage, which mentions its applications in treating acne, psoriasis, and eczema. Therefore, this statement can be inferred from the passage.

4. As used in the last sentence of this paragraph, the term 'concomitant' means?

A. Accompanying
B. Quiet
C. Frustrated
D. Prefer low-pitched tones

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the provided extract, the term 'concomitant' is used to describe problems associated with alcohol abuse, such as the individual becoming alcoholic, contribution to highway deaths by drunken drivers, and spousal and child abuse. Therefore, in this context, 'concomitant' means accompanying, or going along with something else. The other choices of 'Quiet,' 'Frustrated,' and 'Prefer low-pitched tones' do not align with the meaning of 'concomitant' as used in the paragraph.

5. 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.