what is the meaning of the word pathogens as it is used in the first paragraph

HESI A2

HESI A2 Reading Comprehension V1 2024

1. What is the meaning of the word 'pathogens' as it is used in the first paragraph?

A. diseases
B. vaccines
C. disease-causing substances
D. foods

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the context provided, 'pathogens' refers to disease-causing substances such as bacteria and viruses. These microorganisms can contaminate food and lead to foodborne illnesses. Choice A ('diseases') is incorrect as pathogens themselves cause diseases but are not diseases. Choice B ('vaccines') is incorrect as vaccines are used to prevent diseases caused by pathogens. Choice D ('foods') is incorrect as pathogens are not foods, but rather contaminants that can be found in food.

2. 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.

3. What statement about global warming is made in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest?

A. Global warming is caused by deforestation.
B. Global warming is unrelated to deforestation.
C. Global warming is exaggerated.
D. Global warming is not a concern.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement about global warming in the passage on the Amazon Rainforest is that it is caused by deforestation. The passage explains that cutting down trees in the rainforest increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, leading to global warming. This is supported by the fact that the burning of Brazilian rainforests alone produces 200 million metric tons of carbon dioxide a year. Choice B is incorrect as the passage clearly establishes a direct link between deforestation and global warming. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not suggest that global warming is exaggerated, but rather highlights the harmful effects of deforestation. Choice D is incorrect as the passage emphasizes the serious concern of global warming due to deforestation.

4. What is implied by the article?

A. Siam was renamed Thailand in the past
B. The author dislikes parlor games
C. Elephants are difficult to take care of and train
D. White elephants were considered sacred and a burden to their recipients

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The article explicitly states that centuries ago, Siam, now known as Thailand, had the custom of giving white elephants as punishment. This implies that Siam was renamed Thailand in the past. The other choices (B, C, D) are not supported by the content of the article. Choice B is incorrect as the author does not express any dislike for parlor games. Choice C is incorrect as the article does not mention that elephants are easy or difficult to take care of and train. Choice D is incorrect as the article describes white elephants as sacred and a burden to their recipients, not as hard workers in the cane fields.