HESI A2 Reading Comprehension 2024

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Seeped. In the context of the last paragraph, "leached" typically refers to the process of nutrients or minerals being removed or washed out gradually from soil or another substance. This choice aligns with the idea of something gradually seeping out, which fits the context of the word. A: "Sucked" implies a more forceful action than the gradual process suggested by the term "leached." B: "Compressed" does not convey the idea of nutrients or minerals being removed, which is the essence of leaching. D: "Materialized" refers to something becoming real or tangible, which is unrelated to the process of leaching.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Intricate. In the context of the first paragraph, "delicate" is used to describe something that is complex, detailed, and requiring precision, which aligns with the definition of intricate. Subtle (A) implies something more understated, fragile (B) refers to something easily broken, and refined (C) suggests something polished or improved, none of which capture the complexity conveyed by "delicate" in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Diverse. Disparate means fundamentally different or distinct. In the context of the first paragraph, it refers to the variety or differences among the subjects discussed. Choice A, unusual, doesn't capture the essence of distinct differences. Choice C, trivial, is incorrect as disparate implies significant differences, not something trivial. Choice D, damaging, is unrelated to the meaning of disparate. So, B is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the meaning of disparate in the given context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To intensify. In the context of the last paragraph, exacerbate means to make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse or more severe. This is supported by the text indicating that the situation described would worsen due to certain factors. Choice A, to soothe, is incorrect as it means to make something feel better or calmer, which is opposite in meaning to exacerbate. Choice C, to adapt, is incorrect as it means to adjust to new conditions, not to make a situation worse. Choice D, to disclose, is incorrect as it means to reveal or make something known, which is unrelated to the context of exacerbate in the paragraph.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: To persuade. The author's primary purpose is to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint or idea. This is evident through the use of persuasive language, arguments, and appeals to emotions or logic. The essay is structured to sway the reader's opinion or inspire action. B: To entertain is incorrect because the essay is focused on presenting a persuasive argument rather than providing enjoyment or amusement. C: To analyze is incorrect as the essay does not primarily focus on examining or interpreting information but rather on advocating a specific perspective. D: To reflect is incorrect as the essay is not primarily about introspection or personal thoughts but about influencing the reader's beliefs or actions.