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: 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.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the passage explicitly states that a tick must feed on an infected mouse or squirrel in order to spread Lyme disease. This conclusion is directly supported by the information provided in the passage. Choice A is incorrect because the passage does not mention anything about other mammals exhibiting symptoms when infected by Borrelia burgdorferi. Choice B is incorrect because the passage only discusses the life cycle of an infected tick, not an uninfected tick. Choice D is incorrect because the passage does not mention anything about the combination of fever, headache, and joint pain not being a definite indication of Lyme disease.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Chance. In the first paragraph, the word "serendipity" is used to describe a fortunate and unexpected discovery. This aligns with the definition of chance, where something positive happens by luck rather than by intention. Other choices like Persistence, Foreboding, and Expertise do not accurately reflect the meaning of serendipity in the context provided. Persistence refers to determination, Foreboding means a feeling that something bad will happen, and Expertise relates to knowledge and skill, none of which capture the essence of serendipity as a chance occurrence.

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.