where is thailand

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Where is Thailand located?

A. Africa
B. Europe
C. South America
D. Asia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Thailand is located in Asia, not South America. Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. The extract provided also mentions the country of Siam, which is now known as Thailand, indicating its location in Asia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Thailand is not located in Africa, Europe, or South America.

2. What is the main idea of this passage?

A. The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation
B. Water cycle components include only evaporation and condensation
C. The water cycle includes precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation
D. The water cycle happens in the atmosphere only

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The water cycle consists of precipitation, evaporation, and condensation.' The passage explains the stages of the water cycle, which are precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, or hail), runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice B is incorrect because the water cycle involves more than just evaporation and condensation. Choice C is incorrect as it includes an additional element, runoff, not mentioned as a primary component of the water cycle in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as the water cycle involves processes both in the atmosphere and on the ground.

3. What is the meaning of the word onset as used in the first paragraph?

A. Cure rate
B. Incubation period
C. Remainder
D. Commencement

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In this context, "onset" refers to the beginning or commencement of dementia symptoms. The term is used to indicate when the disease first becomes noticeable in patients, making option D the correct choice.

4. Why was receiving a white elephant considered a burden in ancient Siam?

A. People tried to avoid receiving it, as it was a burden.
B. It was a symbol of honor and wealth.
C. It was used in ceremonial processes.
D. The people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.

5. The word lethargy as used in the second paragraph of the passage can best be defined as ___________.

A. Sluggishness
B. Irritability
C. Energy
D. Starvation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, 'lethargy' refers to a state of sluggishness or lack of energy. The passage mentions that people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) struggle with lethargy and chronic fatigue, impairing their daily lives. Therefore, the correct definition of 'lethargy' in this context is 'sluggishness.' Choice B, 'Irritability,' is incorrect as lethargy refers more to a lack of energy than to being irritable. Choice C, 'Energy,' is the opposite of lethargy. Choice D, 'Starvation,' is unrelated to the definition of lethargy in this context.