what is the meaning of the word innocuous as used in the first paragraph

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension 2024

1. What is the meaning of the word innocuous as used in the first paragraph?

A. Undiscovered
B. Harmless
C. Imperceptible
D. Purposeless

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The word "innocuous" in this context means harmless, indicating that most nail abnormalities are not dangerous.

2. Which statement is not a detail from the passage?

A. Condensation fails to happen when water vapor cools and changes back into droplets of liquid
B. Evaporation happens when water changes into gas
C. The water cycle does not involve precipitation
D. Water evaporates from oceans and rivers

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Choice C, 'The water cycle does not involve precipitation,' is not a detail from the passage. The passage clearly states that precipitation, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, is a crucial part of the water cycle. On the other hand, choices A, B, and D are all supported by the passage. Condensation occurs when water vapor cools, evaporation occurs when water changes into gas, and water evaporates from oceans and rivers are all mentioned in the text.

3. What is the overall tone of the essay?

A. Apathetic
B. Fascinated
C. Discouraged
D. Hopeful

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The overall tone of the essay is discouraged, as it conveys concern over the United States’ lower ranking in life expectancy and highlights various health issues contributing to this situation. The language used suggests frustration and disappointment regarding the country's health statistics, supporting option C as the correct answer.

4. What is the meaning of the word 'elasticity' in the last paragraph?

A. Something that is able to resist and be flexible
B. Something that is like plastic
C. Something that is dynamic and electrifying
D. Something that is silly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: 'Elasticity' refers to the ability of the arterial walls to resist and be flexible, which affects blood pressure. In the provided extract, it is mentioned that an increase in blood pressure can occur if the arterial walls lose some of their elasticity with age or disease. This demonstrates that elasticity refers to the property of being able to resist and be flexible, supporting choice A as the correct answer. The other choices, B, C, and D, do not accurately reflect the concept of elasticity in the context of arterial walls and blood pressure.