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. What is the meaning of the word composed in the first paragraph?

A. To consist of
B. To break apart
C. To mix with other elements
D. To heat up

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word 'composed' means to be made up of or to consist of something. In the provided extract, it describes how a single drop of water is composed of an oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is 'To consist of.' Choice B, 'To break apart,' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'composed.' Choice C, 'To mix with other elements,' is incorrect as 'composed' refers to being made up of specific components, not mixed with others. Choice D, 'To heat up,' is unrelated to the meaning of 'composed' in this context.

3. What is implied about the rainforest's role in global climate?

A. The rainforest has little impact on the climate.
B. The rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the climate.
C. The rainforest is mainly important for biodiversity.
D. The rainforest's destruction has no global consequences.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The rainforest plays a crucial role in regulating the global climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. The extract highlights the fact that trees take in carbon dioxide and give off oxygen. When trees are cut down, the amount of carbon dioxide increases, contributing to global warming. This emphasizes the significant impact of rainforests on the climate. Choice A is incorrect as the extract clearly states the importance of rainforests in absorbing carbon dioxide. Choice C, while true, is not directly related to the implied role of rainforests in regulating the climate. Choice D is also incorrect as the destruction of rainforests does have global consequences, such as contributing to global warming.

4. Which part of the bridge was built first?

A. Cables
B. Roadway
C. Sidewalks
D. Towers

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Roadway. In the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge, as with many bridges, the roadway was built first. The roadway provides the foundation and support for the rest of the structure, allowing vehicles and pedestrians to access the bridge. The construction process typically starts with the roadway to establish a base before moving on to other components like cables, towers, and sidewalks. Therefore, the roadway is an essential initial component in bridge construction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because, according to the provided extract, the anchorages were built first, followed by the towers, cables, and finally, the completion of the roadway. This sequence highlights the significance of establishing the structural support before the construction of other elements of the bridge.

5. What role does water vapor play in the Water Cycle, as described in the passage?

A. Water vapor is unnecessary in the water cycle.
B. Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.
C. Water vapor is harmful to the environment.
D. Water vapor cools the Earth's surface.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Water vapor plays a key role in precipitation.' The passage clearly outlines the importance of water vapor in the water cycle. It explains that water vapor returns to the air from surface water and plants, and condenses back into droplets of liquid, forming clouds. These clouds eventually lead to precipitation like rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Choice A is incorrect as water vapor is crucial in the water cycle. Choice C is also incorrect as there is no mention of water vapor being harmful in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not state that water vapor cools the Earth's surface; instead, it highlights its role in the formation of precipitation.