what is the meaning of the word impoverished in the first paragraph

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. What is the meaning of the word impoverished in the first paragraph?

A. Honored
B. Nobility
C. Rich
D. financially weakened

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'impoverished' typically refers to a state of extreme poverty or being financially ruined. In the context of the first paragraph, where it is used to describe the condition of a certain group of people, it indicates that they are lacking in financial resources or are in a state of deprivation. Choice A 'Honored' is incorrect as it has a positive connotation opposite to the negative meaning of 'impoverished.' Choice B 'Nobility' is incorrect as it refers to a high social rank or class, which is unrelated to the financial state implied by 'impoverished.' Choice C 'Rich' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'impoverished,' denoting wealth and abundance, not financial weakness.

2. What does the term inhibitors mean, as used in the second paragraph?

A. Protectors
B. Deterrents
C. Stressors
D. Transporters

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Inhibitors refer to substances that slow down or prevent a particular process, in this case, the buildup of uric acid.

3. The information presented is

A. Balanced in its view of public speaking.
B. Favoring people with low-pitched voices.
C. Slanted against people with piercing voices.
D. Neutral toward both high- and low-pitched voices.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The paragraph is biased against people with piercing or harsh voices, suggesting they are less desirable as public speakers, newscasters, or political candidates. The text explicitly mentions that harsh voice qualities, like being shrill, grating, hard, piercing, brassy, loud, or nasal, are undesirable and may make people uncomfortable when speaking. It also highlights that tension leading to harsh voice qualities is more common in higher-pitched voices, which are typically associated with women, making them less preferred for public speaking roles. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the text does not suggest a balanced view, favor low-pitched voices, or maintain neutrality towards both high- and low-pitched voices; instead, it emphasizes the negative impact of harsh and piercing voices.

4. Which might be a good title for this passage about Barefoot Running?

A. Everyone Should Run Barefoot
B. How to Prevent Running Injuries
C. Modern Road Surfaces Versus Barefoot Running
D. The Debate over Barefoot Running

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The title 'The Debate over Barefoot Running' captures the main discussion in the passage.

5. What does the word 'composed' mean in the passage on the Water Cycle?

A. To consist of.
B. To create.
C. To separate.
D. To destroy.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the context of the Water Cycle, 'composed' means 'to consist of' parts. For instance, water is composed of hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Therefore, the correct meaning of 'composed' in this context is to consist of various components. Choice B, 'To create,' is incorrect as 'composed' refers to the makeup of something rather than the act of making or creating. Choices C and D, 'To separate' and 'To destroy,' are also incorrect as they do not align with the meaning of 'composed' in the passage.