HESI A2 Practice Exam 2 Welcome to your HESI A2 Practice Exam 2 This test is designed to prepare you mentally for the actual HESI Exam with the same number of (297 questions) and the same time allowed (310 minutes) as the actual exam. The HESI A2 Exam is breakdown into Eight (8) Parts. Here are the Eight (8) Domains of the HESI A2 Exam with the weightage and number of questions in this practice exam: 1. Anatomy & Physiology [25 Questions] 2. Basic Math Skills [50 Questions] 3. Biology [25 Questions] 4. Chemistry [25 Questions] 5. Grammar [50 Questions] 6. Physics [25 Questions] 7. Reading Comprehension [47 Questions] 8. Vocabulary & General Knowledge [50 Questions] Please click NEXT to start your Free HESI A2 PRACTICE EXAM right away. Best of Luck! 1. Which of the following means the same thing as anterior? Inferior Superior Caudal Ventral None 2. Which of the following represents the correct order of organization from the simplest to the most complex? Cell-organ-tissue-system-organism Cell-tissue-system-organ-organism Cell-tissue-organ-system-organism Cell-system-tissue-organ-organism None 3. Which of the following statements about the skin is correct? The dermis is deep and has 2 layers The epidermis is superficial and has 2 layers The epidermis is deep and has 5 layers The dermis is superficial and has 5 layers None 4. Which of the following includes some of the functions of the skeletal system? Support, Movement, Haematopoiesis, Mineral storage, Fat storage Support, Movement, Haematopoiesis, Mineral storage, Blood pressure regulation Support, Movement, Protection, Muscle attachment, Heat generation Support, Movement, Protection, Thermoregulation, Haematopoiesis, None 5. Which type of muscles have striated muscle fibers that join at the intercalated disc? Skeletal muscle Smooth muscle Cardiac muscle Vascular muscles None 6. The nervous system is divided into two parts, namely ___________ and ____________. The central nervous system and autonomic nervous system The central nervous system and somatic nervous system The central nervous system and peripheral nervous system The central nervous system and spinal cord None 7. The endocrine system uses ___________ to maintain homeostasis. Hormones Electrical impulses Nucleic acids Enzymes None 8. Which of the following is a function of blood? Movement Development of secondary sex characteristics Excretion of wastes Transport of gases None 9. The ________________ is a passage for air and food. Pharynx Larynx Alveoli Bronchi None 10. Which of the following correctly lists organs that are part of the digestive system? Liver, pancreas, large intestine, and rectum Pharynx, esophagus, small intestine, and bladder Stomach, salivary glands, liver, and thyroid gland Stomach, rectum, kidneys, and anal canal None 11. Which structure transports urine from the kidney to the bladder? Prostate Ureter Urethra Collecting duct None 12. White blood cells with granules in their cytoplasm are called __________. Monocyte Granulocyte NK cells Lymphocyte None 13. The following are functions of the gonads except ____________. Development of secondary sexual characteristics Production of hormones Transporting of egg cells to fertilization site Production of gametes None 14. Which of the following structures in the retina is responsible for night vision? Rods Macula Fovea Cones None 15. Of the following, which structure has the highest visual acuity? Aqueous humor Fovea Retina Macula None 16. Where is the popliteal artery located? Near the top of the cubital fossa Below the jaw line between the trachea and sternomastoid muscle Behind the knee On the underside of the wrist None 17. What is erythropoiesis and where does it occur? The formation of red blood cells; Red bone marrow The formation of bile; Liver The formation of red blood cells; Heart The formation of white blood cells; Spleen None 18. Which of the following best describes the function of the mitral valve? Lets blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle Lets blood flow from the right ventricle to the right atrium Lets blood flow from the left ventricle to the left atrium Lets blood flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle None 19. How does serotonin affect the body? It helps to regulate mood, anxiety, sleep, memory, and appetite. It stimulates the uterine muscles to contract during childbirth and promotes lactation. It helps to regulate urine output and maintains osmolarity. It helps to regulate motivation, euphoria, and fine motor function. None 20. T-lymphocytes are developed by which of the following glands? Lymph nodes Thyroid Hypothalamus Thymus None 21. Cerumen is secreted by apocrine glands located in which of the following structures? The cochlea The external auditory canal The eustachian tube The organ of corti None 22. What is one of the functions of the hypothalamus? Regulating body temperature Regulating calcium levels in the blood Regulating heart rate and blood pressure Regulating blood sugar levels None 23. Which structure in the epidermis is responsible for cooling the body to maintain temperature homeostasis? Sebaceous glands None of these Eccrine glands Ceruminous glands None 24. What type of cell division occurs in the gonads? Meiosis Mitosis Binary fission Hemopeiosis None 25. Which of the following is a primary function of the male and/or female reproductive systems? To produce gametes To transport blood and oxygen To regulate the process of mitosis To protect against infections None 26. What is the difference in value between the first nine and second nine in the number 493,912.83? The first nine is 10x smaller than the second nine. The first nine is 100x larger than the second nine. The first nine is 10x larger than the second nine. The second nine is 20x smaller than the first nine. None 27. Order the following numbers from least to greatest. -7, 7, 4, -9, 11, – 14 -7, -9, -14, 4, 7, 11 -14, -9, -7, 7, 4, 11 -14, -9, -7, 4, 7, 11 4, 7, 11, -7, -9, -14 None 28. Write an expression for the following scenario: Each week, a bakery can produce 150 loaves of bread. One week, the machines were down and were only able to produce 78 loaves of bread. How many loaves was the bakery able to produce after w weeks? 150w + 78 78w (150 – 78)w 150(w – 1) + 78 None 29. Round 43.876 to the nearest hundredth. 43.87 43.8 43.88 43.9 None 30. 6 × 3 ÷ 2 × 4 13 36 8 18 None 31. A flight ticket from New York to Los Angeles cost $418. A return flight cost $389. What is the price of a round trip ticket? $807 $697 $29 $870 None 32. A bakery sold 86 pies at the price of $9 each. How much money did the bakery make from pie sales? $720 $92 $754 $774 None 33. An emergency room has a total of 83 patients to be treated. If 57 patients have already been treated, how many are left? 140 8 26 19 None 34. Find the sum of 67.98 and 194.8 241.78 262.78 252.78 251.78 None 35. Find the product of 7.6 and 32 243.2 232.2 242.2 224.2 None 36. The Smith family needs 5.6 cups of sugar for their famous cookie recipe. If they currently have 3.89 cups of sugar, how many more cups of sugar do they need? 1.71 cups 3.89 cups 2.71 cups 3.67 cups None 37. What is 24/56 in simplest form? 3/56 3/7 12/28 2/28 None 38. Which of the following sets contains fractions that are equivalent to one another? 2/3 , 4/6 , 8/12 3/4 , 4/6 , 8/12 2/3 , 8/12, 3/6 3/4 , 2/3 , 8/12 None 39. Convert 3 5/6 into an improper fraction. 23/6 18/6 35/6 5/6 None 40. Subtract 4/5 − 1/2 1 3/10 1 3/10 4 1/2 None 41. 5 3/5 + 7 2/3 13 4/15 12 5/8 12 4/15 10 1/5 None 42. Charlie takes 6 1/3 gallons of water for his 2 day camping trip. He uses 2 2/5 gallons of water on the first day. How much water does Charlie have left on the second day? 3 1/2 gallons 3 14/15 gallons 4 1/2 gallons 4 gallons None 43. 7/9 * 5/3 4 1/9 1 8/27 11 2/3 2 8/27 None 44. 5/7 ÷ 3 1/4 20/91 15/28 1 9/28 2 9/28 None 45. June has 2 1/2 liters of orange juice in her fridge. If she pours the orange juice into 1/2 liter cups, how many cups will she fill up? 1 1/4 5/2 2 5 None 46. Joseph walked for 1 1/2 miles in the morning, 2 2/3 miles at lunch, and 1 3/5 miles in the evening. How many miles did Joseph walk in total? 6/20 5 23/30 4 6/10 1 10/60 None 47. Convert 0.82569 into a fraction. 82,569/10,000 1/82,659 1/82 82,569/100,000 None 48. Convert 12/20 into a decimal. 6.0 0.06 0.6 0.12 None 49. Convert 6 4/5 into a decimal. 6.4 6.08 6.5 6.8 None 50. 5:12 = x:36 What is the value of x? x = 7.2 x = 12 x = 15 x = 3 None 51. Susan paid $270 for 20 pencil sets. What is the price of one pencil set? $13 $7.40 $13.50 $250 None 52. Mozie buys 6 cans of soda for $12.90. How much would Mozie pay for 8 cans of soda? $16.10 $12.80 $15.75 $17.20 None 53. Convert 0.7 into a percent. 7% 77% 0.70% 70% None 54. What is 54% of 6? Round to the nearest tenth. 5.43 3.24 3.2 5 None 55. 32.4 is 20% of what number? 16.2 648 162 6.48 None 56. 212 is what percent of 848? 0.25% 25% 1797.8% 4% None 57. There are 600 students in a school. If 30% of the students speak Spanish, how many Spanish speakers are in the school? 60 people 240 people 30 people 180 people None 58. 172.35 grams(g) are equal to _____ kilograms (kg). 1723.5 17,235 1.7235 0.17235 None 59. The length of Tommy’s garden is 144 inches. What is the length of Tommy’s garden in yards? 4 yards 48 yards 5,184 yards 12 yards None 60. How many ounces are there in 8 pints? 64 ounces 32 ounces 128 ounces 1 ounce None 61. How many ounces are there in 8 pounds? 128 ounces 0.004 ounces 0.5 ounces 16 ounces None 62. How many millimeters are there in 50 inches? 127 mm 1270 mm 19.7 mm 197 mm None 63. Joe fills up a bucket with 1,422 milliliters of water. How many cups of water does Joe fill the bucket with? 6 cups 48 cups 7 cups 337,014 cups None 64. The average weight of an American woman is 170.6 pounds. What is this weight in kilograms? (Round the weight to the nearest tenth of a kilogram if necessary). 77.5kg 76kg 77.6kg 375.32kg None 65. Convert 94.64 degrees Fahrenheit to Celsius. 202.35 34.8 64.64 76.9 None 66. Write CCCLVII in standard form. 257 387 317 357 None 67. Convert 7:20pm into military time. 1920 0720 1720 0020 None 68. Solve 5x-3 when x = 4. 17 5 6 23 None 69. Solve 7x+2y-3z when x=2, y=5, and z=6. 8 7 6 9 None 70. Solve for y: y-5 =12 y=7 y=17 y=9 y=12 None 71. Solve for x; 12x+7-2x-6= 61 x=13 x=4 x=6 x=10 None 72. A nurse is mixing a solution of anti-allergy medication to give to a patient. The solution calls for 14.7 mg of aspirin and 38.33 mg of antihistamine. If the patient takes 28.5 mg of the solution, how much is left over? 53.40mg 53.03 mg 24.53 mg 24.90 mg None 73. 12.56 + 5.062 = 17.566 17.623 18.023 17.622 None 74. 69.817 + 21.283 = 90.1 91.2 91.1 92.21 None 75. 245.06 + 89.57 + 10.01 = 356.46 344.64 364.64 364.46 None 76. Which of the following statements best describes a valid hypothesis? It is always proven successful and is accepted as a valid law in the scientific world. It is a part of the experiment that can vary or change during the experimental procedure. It can be tested and even falsified after numerous experimental results. It can be accepted or rejected solely based on research data. None 77. Through which characteristic of life does the new progeny (offspring) of species receive their hereditary (inherited) traits? Reproduction Growth and development Response to stimuli Evolution None 78. The hydrogen atoms in a water molecule are linked to the oxygen atom by a(n) __________. All of these Van der waal interaction Ionic bond Covalent bond None 79. How are carbohydrates absorbed into the bloodstream? Carbohydrates are turned into oxygen and are absorbed into the blood via the lungs. Carbohydrates are turned into fatty acids and absorbed into the blood via the walls of the large intestine. Carbohydrates are turned into disaccharides and absorbed into the blood via the walls of the stomach. Carbohydrates are turned into glucose and absorbed into the blood via the walls of the small intestine. None 80. In a cell, reactions take place in a series of steps called ____________? catabolic pathways cellular respiration the electron transport chain metabolic pathways None 81. Which of these structures does not differentiate a prokaryotic from a eukaryotic cell? Organelles Type of DNA Cell membrane Nucleus None 82. Which of the following correctly identifies the steps of cellular respiration? Glycolysis—Pyruvate oxidation—Citric acid cycle—Oxidative phosphorylation Glycolysis—Citric acid cycle—Pyruvate oxidation—Oxidative phosphorylation Glycolysis—Oxidative phosphorylation—Citric acid cycle—Pyruvate oxidation Glycolysis—Citric acid cycle—Oxidative phosphorylation—Pyruvate oxidation None 83. Which of the following are produced as a result of photosynthesis? Oxygen and water Water and carbon dioxide Carbon dioxide and glucose Glucose and oxygen None 84. Which of the following correctly differentiates diploid cells from haploid cells? There are (2n) number of chromosomes in diploid cells and (n) number of chromosomes in haploid cells. The sex cells are diploid cells whereas somatic cells are haploid cells. Diploid cells contain only one set of chromosomes and haploid cells contain two sets of chromosomes. Haploid cells are formed in mitosis whereas diploid cells are formed in meiosis. None 85. Which of the following lists the phases of mitosis in the correct order? Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase Metaphase, Prophase, Anaphase, Telophase Prophase, Anaphase, Metaphase, Telophase Prophase, Metaphase, Telophase, Anaphase None 86. During sexual reproduction, the zygote is formed when a male gamete fuses with a female gamete. How many chromosomes does the zygote cell contain? 4n n 2n 3n None 87. Alleles of the same type are called: homozygous dominant heterozygous mutations None 88. In his genetic experiments, Mendel used: pea plants basil plants cherry trees apple trees None 89. Which of the following needs to be present in order for a substance to be considered a nucleotide? 5 carbon sugar, nitrogenous base, triphosphate deoxyribose, adenosine, triphosphate ribose, amino acid, phosphate 5 carbon sugar, nitrogenous base, phosphate group None 90. Messenger RNA transfers information: from DNA to proteins from RNA to DNA from DNA to ribosomes from DNA to glucose None 91. Which of the following best describes the molecular structure of water? Two oxygen atoms ionically bonded to one hydrogen atom Two oxygen atoms covalently bonded to one hydrogen atom Two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom Two hydrogen atoms ionically bonded to one oxygen atom None 92. Which organelle is correctly paired with its function? Endoplasmic reticulum – locomotion Nucleus – stores DNA Mitochondria – protein synthesis Peroxisome – cellular respiration None 93. A repeatable procedure of gathering data to support or refute a hypothesis is known as drawing a conclusion developing a theory conducting an experiment the scientific method None 94. What function do cholesterol molecules serve within the cell membrane? They allow the cell membrane to be selectively permeable by making the bilayer structure more flexible. They allow for carbohydrate chains to extend beyond the cell membrane to communicate with other cells. They stabilize the flexible bilayer structure to prevent breakage. They act as transport highways for molecular movement into and out of the cell. None 95. Which of the following best describes why polarity is the most important characteristic of water? The benefits of polarity are hydrogen bonding, a high specific heat value, strong cohesive and adhesive properties, and its versatility as a solvent. The benefits of polarity are hydrogen bonding, a high specific heat value, weak cohesive and adhesive properties, and its versatility as a solvent. The benefits of polarity are covalent bonding, a high specific heat value, strong cohesive and adhesive properties, and its versatility as a solvent. The benefits of polarity are hydrogen bonding, a low specific heat value, strong cohesive and adhesive properties, and its versatility as a solvent. None 96. Many cells uptake food through the cell membrane creating a food vacuole in a process known as photosynthesis cytokinesis osmosis phagocytosis None 97. In the Scientific Method, which of the following is a statement or explanation of certain events or happenings based on limited evidence? Hypothesis Conclusion Experiment Observation None 98. Which of the following is found in animal cells but not plant cells? cytoskeleton cytoplasm chloroplast centrioles None 99. Which of the following lists the steps of the Scientific Method in the correct order? hypothesis, observation, experiment, conclusion observation, experiment, hypothesis, conclusion theory, hypothesis, experiment, conclusion observation, hypothesis, experiment, conclusion None 100. Cells are made up of components referred to as: nucleic acids amino acids organelles phospholipids None 101. On which of the following temperature scales can a negative number not exist? Joule Fahrenheit Kelvin Celsius None 102. The mass of a grain of sand is 1.672 × 10^-4 kg. Express this number in standard notation. 0.0001672 kg 0.00001672 kg 1,672 kg 1,672,000 kg None 103. What does the mass number of an atom represent? Protons, electrons, and neutrons Protons and neutrons Protons and electrons Protons None 104. Use the periodic table to answer the following question, if needed. What is the identity of an atom with 24 protons, 30 neutrons, and 24 electrons? Zinc Xenon Chromium Vanadium None 105. What is meant by the phrase “the equilibrium lies far to the right”? The reaction has gone to completion. The equilibrium has been destroyed. The equilibrium greatly favors the reactants. The equilibrium greatly favors the products. None 106. What generally happens to a reaction when the temperature increases? The reaction rate decreases. The reaction rate increases. Temperature generally has no effect on the rate of a reaction. A precipitate usually forms. None 107. What are the units of molarity? mol/L g/L kg/L g/mL None 108. What is the molarity of an aqueous solution with 0.40 moles of sugar dissolved in 5 liters of water? 0.08 M 8.0 M 0.04 M 800.0 M None 109. Answer: 0.08 M Molarity is defined as moles of solute divided by liters of solution and has units of mol/L. To get this answer, you just divide the number of moles by the volume in liters: 0.40 mol/5 L = 0.08 M 2s 2p 1s 3s None 110. Which of the following is not likely to have a dipole? Nonpolar compound Salt Polar compound Ionic compound None 111. An oxidizing agent does which of the following? Loses electrons Reduces another chemical Oxidizes another chemical Is oxidized by the reducing agent None 112. Which is the reducing agent in the following reaction? HNO3 + HI→ NO + I2 + H2O I O N H None 113. When a chemist dips a piece of blue litmus paper into a solution, no color change is observed. Why? The solution is acidic The solution is basic pH is less than 7 The pH paper is too old None 114. If a solution is neutral, where would its pH lie? Below 7.0 Above 7.0 7.0 None 115. The half-life of As-81 is 33 seconds. If only 12.5 g of a 100.0 g sample of As-81 is left, how long did it take for the original sample to decay to its current mass? 16.5 s 33 s 66 s 99 s None 116. Cesium-137 has a half-life of 30 years. If a 2.0 g sample of cesium-137 decays over 120 years, how much would remain? 1.4 g 0.5 g 0.125 g 0.25 g None 117. How many total amino acids are needed for the human body to produce all the proteins it needs? 11 10 9 20 None 118. If a fat has more than one double bond, what is it called? Polyunsaturated Trans fat Monounsaturated Saturated None 119. How many electrons does a neutral atom of nitrogen have? 5 7 8 6 None 120. Which of the following is located in Group 2 of the periodic table? Hydrogen Neon Barium Lithium None 121. How many protons does the element xenon (Xe) have? 54 18 55 53 None 122. Which of the following represents the correct electron configuration for sodium (Na)? 1s2 2s2 2p6 2s1 2s2 2s2 2p6 3s1 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s1 None 123. How many neutrons does 58Cr have? 35 34 36 58 None 124. Which of the following elements is located in period 2 of the periodic table? Oxygen Hydrogen Helium Magnesium None 125. Which of the following comprise an ionic compound? Electron and quark Cation and anion Anion and neutron Cation and proton None 126. Which word in the following sentence is a noun? He showed great bravery by saving them yesterday. bravery he saving by None 127. Which word in the following sentence is a pronoun? The teacher gave her back the essay last week. teacher last her gave None 128. Which word in the following sentence is an adjective? Give me those cookies, please. me those please Give None 129. Which word in the following sentence is a verb? The woman eagerly accepted the job offer last week. last woman eagerly accepted None 130. Which word in the following sentence is an adverb? Jennifer quietly walked into the library. quietly into library walked None 131. Which word in the following sentence is an interjection? Oops, I accidentally dropped the glass and it broke. and it dropped Oops None 132. Which word in the following sentence is a conjunction? Sharon’s grandmother baked several apple pies today, so her house smelled like sweet cinnamon. baked sweet so her None 133. Which word in the following sentence is a preposition? London stayed awake until his mom came home that night. until mom stayed his None 134. Which sentence uses ROSE as an adjective? She wore a rose dress for the wedding reception. The farmer’s market was selling a single rose for six dollars. Carmen picked a rose from the back garden. Father rose from his deep slumber to answer the door. None 135. In the following sentence, which is the simple predicate? Their friendship became stronger and stronger each day. friendship became stronger and stronger each day became stronger None 136. Identify the COMPLETE sentence. Is an expert in determining which mushrooms are safe and which are poisonous. Before the engine started. Lori gets a manicure and pedicure once a month. To tell us about his life. None 137. Identify the INCOMPLETE sentence. Does this look correct to you? The waterfall at the top of the creek. I really do not like snakes. Laura wants a new car. None 138. Identify the dependent clause in the following sentence: If you want to avoid heavy traffic in the city, I advise you to leave before noon. I advise you to leave before noon. to leave before noon If you want to avoid heavy traffic in the city to avoid heavy traffic in the city None 139. In the following sentence, what is the independent clause? I had to wait outside for an hour because I had forgotten my keys at the office. because I had forgotten my keys at the office. I had to wait outside for an hour to wait outside for an hour my keys at the office. None 140. Which word or phrase in the following sentence is the direct object? his girlfriend, Angela Eric Yesterday bouquet of red roses None 141. Which word or phrase in the following sentence is the indirect object? During the press conference, the reckless journalist asked the mayor several tricky questions. several tricky questions. During the press conference the mayor the reckless journalist None 142. Which statement contains a predicate adjective? The road becomes narrow after the left turn. Manuel broke up with that woman. Susan voted for the youngest candidate. A massive whale washed ashore last week. None 143. Which sentence contains a predicate nominative? The Rolling Stones is a rock band from England. This year the rain has been scarce. Celine Dion was wonderful during the whole concert. Send me those e-mails as soon as you can. None 144. Which of the following is a simple sentence? Wherever you are, you can always call me. We thought the house was ours, but somebody made a better offer. Before the change of plans. Leo closed all the windows except the one in the kitchen. None 145. Which of the following is a simple sentence? Although it was complex, the manual was still useful. As the new and luxurious apartment. Carlos washed the dishes; Anna dried them. My personal trainer follows a strict gluten-free diet. None 146. Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct? My counselor told me I can choose Spanish, culinary or visual arts for elective class. My counselor told me I can choose Spanish culinary, or visual arts for elective class. My counselor told me I can choose Spanish, culinary, or visual arts for elective class. My counselor told me I can choose Spanish culinary or visual arts for elective class. None 147. Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct? Before you clock out you must count the money in the register lock the back door, and turn off all of the lights. Before you clock out you must count the money in the register, lock the back door and turn off all of the lights. Before you clock out you must count the money in the register lock the back door and turn off all of the lights. Before you clock out, you must count the money in the register, lock the back door, and turn off all of the lights. None 148. Which use of an apostrophe in the following sentence is correct? The photos’ that belong to Mary’s mother got destroyed when the floods’ happened all over the city of Grand Rapid’s. photos' Rapid's Mary's floods' None 149. Select the word or phrase in the sentence that is not used correctly. Eliza went over to Shonda’s house to study for their exams’. house Shonda's exams' their None 150. Worried her passengers wouldn’t arrive on time, _______________. Which of the following correctly completes the sentence? the stop sign was hidden behind a tree the little girl started to cry the front wheels began to slide on the ice the driver pressed the accelerator None 151. Just before the power went out, the baker in the oven had managed to put the cherry, peach, and apple pies. had managed to put the baker in the oven just before None 152. Select the correct word(s) for the blank in the following sentence. I preferred Mrs. Edwards over Mrs. Smith as a Math teacher because the latter was _______. patientest most patient patienter more patient None 153. Select the correct word(s) for the blank in the following sentence. The climate in Florida is __________ than in Arizona, where we live. more humid humider humidest most humid None 154. Choose the correct word for the blank in the following sentence. The debate moderator found Roberta’s argument quality to be _______ than Juan’s. more bad bad worst worse None 155. Choose the correct word for the blank in the following sentence: The therapist advised him to find a _______ stressful way to earn some extra money. little more little least less None 156. Select the correct word(s) for the blank in the sentence below: Remember to check all the contracts have been signed before you mail _____. themselves they their them None 157. Which sentence is grammatically correct? Her parents gifted her a new convertible car on her seventeenth birthday, and she’s still driving it’s after thirteen years. Her parents gifted her a new convertible car on her seventeenth birthday, and she’s still driving it after thirteen years. Her parents gifted her a new convertible car on her seventeenth birthday, and she’s still driving itself after thirteen years. Her parents gifted her a new convertible car on her seventeenth birthday, and she’s still driving its after thirteen years. None 158. Which sentence is grammatically incorrect? The teachers had to return to their classrooms so they could pack up the textbooks. Katherine and Victoria had been roommates for several years, but they were starting to dislike living together. The supermarket is supposed to open at 7:00am but it looks like it appears to be closed right now. Lucas told Hunter that he needed to go to the gym to lift weights. None 159. Which sentence is grammatically incorrect? She hammered the nail into the board until it split into two parts. The personal assistant brought her boss several beverages because she didn’t know which one her boss would want. The five sisters rented a beach house for the weekend so they could celebrate the holiday together. Edwin told Trey that Mr. Wilson suspected he had cheated on the Spanish test. None 160. Select the best word or words for the blank in the following sentence. Both dogs, mine and Tommy′s, _____ been chasing the cat for hours. was have were has None 161. Select the best word or words for the blank in the following sentence. She runs a small children′s charity and ____ in need of volunteers. were are be is None 162. Choose the correct word for the blank in the sentence. This new study estimates the change of policy could _______ well over 70% of American families. afect effect efect affect None 163. Choose the correct word for the blank in the sentence. The singer’s ______ voice could be heard from across the hall. hoars hoarse horse hearse None 164. Identify the cliché used in the following sentence: I know you’re upset about losing the championship, but you have to remember that time heals all wounds and that you won’t be winning any trophies if you don’t get out of bed. get out of bed upset about losing time heals all wounds winning any trophies None 165. Which sentence contains a cliché? My great-grandfather is as old as the hills, but he walks five miles every day. You can tell the dog is scared because he has his tail between his legs. Victoria ate the last piece of cake, even though I had told her I was saving it for Julia. The students could admire several diamonds in the rough during Geology class. None 166. Select the best words for the blanks in the following sentence. Puffy, my cat, is very _____ and always behaves _______. bad, bad badly, bad bad, badly badly, badly None 167. Which word in the following sentence is a noun? The man walked quickly down the hall. down walked man quickly None 168. Select the best words for the blanks in the following sentence. Of course, I _____ stand the heat of this food but _____ I have some water, please? can, may may, may can, can may, can None 169. Select the best word or phrase for the blank in the following sentence. My parents _______ to Chicago before I was born. move moved are moving will move None 170. Which word is used incorrectly in the following sentence? I work with two women, Rachel and Martha, both of who attended Harvard University at the same time I did. work who both attended None 171. Which word is used incorrectly in the following sentence? Who said the police station is among the post office and the French bakery? among post French who None 172. Select the best word for the blank in the following sentence. This decision will ______ our working relationship, but I hope we can remain friends. cause affect effect produce None 173. Select the best word for the blank in the following sentence. His walk took him ______ than he had wanted and he took a bus to go back home. farther farer more far further None 174. Select the best word or phrase for the blank in the following sentence. There _____ no time to work on that at this moment, let′s finish Mrs. Harris’ project first. is will be had been was None 175. Select the best word or phrase for the blank in the following sentence. The fruit _______ to rot soon if we don′t hire more people for the harvest. has started will start is starting starts None 176. Which of the following is an example of a vector quantity? Distance Speed Velocity Time None 177. A motorcycle’s velocity at the top of a hill is 20 m/s. Four seconds later, it reaches the bottom of the hill with a velocity of 52 m/s. What was the magnitude of the motorcycle’s acceleration? 9 m/s² 11 m/s² 8 m/s² 10 m/s² None 178. A rocket travels horizontally for 3 minutes at 160 m/s before it hits its target. How far is the target from the point where the rocket was launched? 28,800 m 480 m 14,400 m 240 m None 179. Which of the following statements describes Newton’s second law of motion? The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the external force on the body. For a body of constant mass, its acceleration is inversely proportional to the external force acting on it. None of these The rate of change of momentum of a body is equal to the rate of change of external force acting on it. None 180. A box is lying on a table. Two forces of values 150 N and 235 N act on the box in the same direction (to the left). What is the resultant force on the box lying on the table? (Assume the table to be frictionless) 85 N to the left 85 N to the right 385 N to the right 385 N to the left None 181. Which of the following forces is a type of contact force that opposes the motion of a body when it comes in contact with another surface? Magnetic force Normal force Electric force Frictional force None 182. An object of mass 53 kg is on the ground. If the coefficient of friction between the object and the ground is 0.7, what is the frictional force on the object? 450.91 N 519.4 N 363.58 N 243.12 N None 183. A fan that was rotating at a speed of 450 revolutions per second for 5 minutes had its speed setting turned down to 240 revolutions per second after 5.5 minutes. What is the angular acceleration over this period of time? 420 rev/min² -420 rev/min² 7 rev/min² -7 rev/min² None 184. Which of the following is the name of the force acting on a body in circular motion that is directed away from the center? Centripetal Force Centrifugal Force Nuclear Force Electrical Force None 185. A baseball that weighs 0.125 kg is thrown at 40.1 m/s. What is the Kinetic Energy of the ball? 201 J 101 J 5.0 J 2.5 J None 186. A person jumps in the air. When they reach their peak height, they are 0.65m off of the ground. The person as a mass of 83 kg. What is their gravitational potential energy? 515 J 530 J 545 J 560 J None 187. The tendency of an object in motion to remain in motion is referred to as which of the following? Inertia Mass Force Balance None 188. What is the force of attraction between two objects, if Object 1 has a mass of 2.5 kg and Object 2 as a mass of 5.5 kg if the objects are placed 4.5 m apart? 2.3 x 10^-11 N 4.5 x 10^-11 N 9.0 x 10^-11 N 2.0 x 10^-10 N None 189. A mechanical wave is associated with materials or substances known as mediums. Which of the following is not a type of mechanical wave? Water waves Spring waves Radio waves Seismic waves None 190. A wave travels 36 m/s and has a wavelength of 5.3 m. What would be the frequency of the wave? 0.15 Hz 4.37 Hz 6.79 Hz 0.83 Hz None 191. A 4.5 m tall object is placed 1.4 m away from a convex mirror and has an image height of 3.5 m. What is the image distance? -1.09 m -1.79 m 1.09 m -0.54 m None 192. If a 1.5 m painting is placed 1.5 m away from a convex mirror that has a focal length of 1.75 m, what is the image distance of the painting? 1.25 m 3.0 m 10 m -10 m None 193. A circuit consists of 5 identical light bulbs with 80 Ohm resistance each. If the bulbs are placed in a series and then wired to a 120 V power supply, what would be the current flowing in the circuit 3.33 A 3 A 0.3 A 0.03 A None 194. A LED light bulb with 120 Ohm resistance is powered by a 220 Volt power source. What is the current being drawn? 18.3 A 5.5 A 0.55 A 1.83 A None 195. What are the three elements that are influenced in magnetic fields? Aluminium, Nickel, Cobalt Iron, Nickel, Cobalt Aluminium, Iron, Cobalt Iron, Nickel, Aluminium None 196. A box is sitting on a table. The mass of the box is 5.2 kg. The gravitational acceleration constant of Earth is approximately 10 m/s2. What is the force that the table is exerting on the box to keep the box from accelerating towards the ground? 5.2 N upward 52 N downward 5.2 N downward 52 N upward None 197. A bowling ball hits a bowling pin. The ball has a mass of 5.3 kg and accelerates at a rate of 2 m/s2 backward. What is the force on the bowling ball? 5.3 N backward 5.3 N forward 10.6 N forward 10.6 N backward None 198. A car that has a mass of 800 kg slows down. The brakes exert a force of -2780 N. What is the acceleration of the car? 3.5 m/s² -2.7 m/s² -3.5 m/s² 2.7 m/s² None 199. Which of the following is the correct equation for Newton’s 2nd Law of Motion? F = 1/(ma) F = ma F = m/a F = a/m None 200. A ball rolls down a hill. The mass of the ball is 2.70 kg and is accelerating at a rate of 1.60 m/s2. What is the force on the ball? 8.53 N down the hill 5.97 N down the hill 3.54 N down the hill 4.32 N down the hill None 201. Nature’s Pharmacy: Paracelsus, a Swiss physician and alchemist who was considered a pioneer in medicinal practices during the Renaissance, was once quoted as saying, “Amidst the plains and mountains lie the best pharmacies”. While groups of homeopathic healers have long believed that nature may hold the secret to curing ailments, recent studies have also suggested that plants may be valid alternatives when fighting illness and disease. Even so, will patients be willing to rely solely on nature’s pharmacy, rather than their trusted brick and mortar drug stores? The latest research on the topic leads to interesting facts and figures. In past centuries, the use of plants and herbs to cure ailments was a popular solution. However, it began to lose credibility in the 19th century, with the advent of pharmaceutical drugs. Phytotherapy, an allopathic discipline that uses natural extracts as medicines, was the most prominent medicinal therapy in the 1800s. In the 1900s, however, controversy regarding the lack of control measures in their manufacturing processes, coupled with the advent of pharmaceutical medicine, led to the decline of natural remedies and their popularity. Thanks to the current, more stringent protocol in the manufacturing process, though, alternative medicine is making a comeback. Unbeknownst to most of the population, phytotherapy must be studied by a trained and qualified professional. With this in mind, simply browsing the “Botanicals and Natural Remedies” aisle at the local pharmacy, or using lavender oil to help get rid of a headache, could actually do more harm than good. Without in-depth and accurate knowledge regarding the potential healing properties and side effects of various plants, using these natural supplements could alter the body’s healing cycles and possibly interfere with the use of other pharmaceutical drugs. Thanks to the fact that phytotherapy has become an internationally-recognized area of study, universities around the world offer academic programs dedicated to understanding the chemical properties of plants. However, access to more knowledge on a topic may not automatically persuade people to turn to natural supplements when battling general ailments. In fact, according to a recent survey, psychologists believe that it will take at least a few years before the average person includes natural supplements in their medicine cabinets. Moreover, people are unlikely to trust the input of holistic medical practitioners, even if they hold advanced degrees in phytotherapy. On the other hand, research suggests that once these facts become part of the mainstream medical industry, people may be open to new therapies. Until then, the potential curing effects of nature’s pharmacies may likely remain in classroom universities and history textbooks. What is the main idea of the third paragraph? It is possible to attend university specifically for phytotherapy. An accurate understanding of phytotherapy involves specific knowledge regarding plants’ chemical properties, among other things. It is unlikely that people will truly understand phytotherapy. It is likely that people will misuse phytotherapy, since they may not understand the extensive amount of knowledge that goes into the discipline. None 202. Nature’s Pharmacy: Paracelsus, a Swiss physician and alchemist who was considered a pioneer in medicinal practices during the Renaissance, was once quoted as saying, “Amidst the plains and mountains lie the best pharmacies”. While groups of homeopathic healers have long believed that nature may hold the secret to curing ailments, recent studies have also suggested that plants may be valid alternatives when fighting illness and disease. Even so, will patients be willing to rely solely on nature’s pharmacy, rather than their trusted brick and mortar drug stores? The latest research on the topic leads to interesting facts and figures. In past centuries, the use of plants and herbs to cure ailments was a popular solution. However, it began to lose credibility in the 19th century, with the advent of pharmaceutical drugs. Phytotherapy, an allopathic discipline that uses natural extracts as medicines, was the most prominent medicinal therapy in the 1800s. In the 1900s, however, controversy regarding the lack of control measures in their manufacturing processes, coupled with the advent of pharmaceutical medicine, led to the decline of natural remedies and their popularity. Thanks to the current, more stringent protocol in the manufacturing process, though, alternative medicine is making a comeback. Unbeknownst to most of the population, phytotherapy must be studied by a trained and qualified professional. With this in mind, simply browsing the “Botanicals and Natural Remedies” aisle at the local pharmacy, or using lavender oil to help get rid of a headache, could actually do more harm than good. Without in-depth and accurate knowledge regarding the potential healing properties and side effects of various plants, using these natural supplements could alter the body’s healing cycles and possibly interfere with the use of other pharmaceutical drugs. Thanks to the fact that phytotherapy has become an internationally-recognized area of study, universities around the world offer academic programs dedicated to understanding the chemical properties of plants. However, access to more knowledge on a topic may not automatically persuade people to turn to natural supplements when battling general ailments. In fact, according to a recent survey, psychologists believe that it will take at least a few years before the average person includes natural supplements in their medicine cabinets. Moreover, people are unlikely to trust the input of holistic medical practitioners, even if they hold advanced degrees in phytotherapy. On the other hand, research suggests that once these facts become part of the mainstream medical industry, people may be open to new therapies. Until then, the potential curing effects of nature’s pharmacies may likely remain in classroom universities and history textbooks. What is the main idea of the passage? The history and study of phytotherapy are extensive, and research shows that the discipline could return to mainstream medicinal practices, but only under certain circumstances. The discipline of phytotherapy was once a popular choice for treating ailments in the 1800s, but this changed with the advent of pharmaceuticals. Despite its use throughout history, recent surveys suggest that phytotherapy is unlikely to become popular in the medicinal field. Homeopathic healers and scientific investigations have proven that phytotherapy is beneficial for healing ailments. None 203. Evolution: From Wolves to Man’s Best Friend: According to a recent poll, dogs are considered to be the most popular and sought after pet for American families. Interestingly enough, what we now understand to be “man’s best friend” was once an independent predator that roamed wild lands. The transformation from wolves to dogs is not only a stunning example of evolution, but it also provides a fascinating look into how wolves have adapted to live in harmony with mankind. When it comes to interactions between species, most DNA experts agree that the long-standing relationship between mankind and dogs is a great mystery. How did our ancestors take on the idea of training a wild animal in hopes of creating a trusted animal ally? Aside from a recent discovery of animal fossils found in the Czech Republic, most data surrounding the evolution of wolves is inconclusive. Moreover, scientists and researchers in the field hold vastly different ideas when it comes to specific dates and explanations regarding the transformation. What is certain, however, is that the evolution of wolves into dogs happened over the course of at least a hundred thousand years. On a general level, it seems as though each theory that serves to explain the progress is paired with another specific theory that deflates the idea. For instance, one popular theory regarding the domestication of wolves posits that humans stole wolf pups from their dens in hopes of training them to protect their families. However, this idea has recently been debunked based on fossil evidence and a better understanding of ancient times through anthropological research. Instead, some experts believe that wolves were actually drawn to humans, and initiated friendly contact due to the excess food waste left in villages. Basically, wolves may have understood domestication as a means of survival, in that food was a guarantee in what may have been an otherwise difficult period for finding prey. If the latter theory is valid, it would seem that the beginning stages of this relationship were more advantageous for wolves. However, the theory of coevolution can shed light on how the relationship benefitted both parties. Many believe that wolves and humans coevolved, in that they affected each other’s evolution for the better and worked together. Wolves, for example, were able to assist humans when hunting for food, thanks to their extreme senses of sight and smell. On the other hand, humans looked after wolves and provided them shelter from outside elements. Of course, the physical and emotional habits of wolves transformed throughout this process. In other words, the first wolves cared for by humans were most likely presented with changes in metabolism due to decreased activity levels and an increased food supply. As these changes carried on through generations, domesticated wolves took on a smaller physical stature and a more relaxed emotional state. Despite these fascinating shifts, it is still possible to recognize the genetic link between wild wolves and America’s most playful pet. What is the main idea of the passage? More DNA evidence is needed to truly confirm the theories that have been developed by scientists. Theories regarding the evolution of wolves into dogs vary greatly. The evolution of wolves into dogs likely included emotional and physical changes, along with a period of adapting to humans. Had humans not taken wolf pups from their dens for companionship, wolves may never have evolved into domesticated animals. None 204. Despite the fact that the genome map was nearly-complete, researchers were still required to work through various gaps that were unable to be filled in through the use of nanopore-based methods. However, this new method was able to cut back on the amount of time researchers spent putting together shorter pieces in order to solve the complicated “DNA puzzle” of human genetics. Although this information is extremely beneficial for neuroscientists and researchers, what does it mean for the general population? Which of the following is not discussed as a fact about nanopore-based methods? Nanopore-based methods have reduced the time necessary for genome mapping. Researchers continue to overcome the gaps left after implementing nanopore-based methods. Using nanopore-based methods breaks genome mapping into less complicated steps. Scientists have gained more knowledge of genome mapping due to nanopore-based methods. None 205. Scientists presume that genome sequences can offer valuable information regarding common diseases and human biology. In fact, they believe that the recurring patterns could also provide clues to some of the most difficult scientific questions, especially those concerning evolution and how humans came into existence. It is predicted that further research will continue to increase the lengths of various DNA fragments, leading to new discoveries and perhaps even answers to the most puzzling biological concerns. Which of the following is NOT true, based on the passage? Gaining more information regarding DNA sequences may assist scientists in finding cures for challenging genetic disorders. Scientists will continue to research DNA sequencing well into the foreseeable future. DNA sequencing offers very little information regarding how humans adapt. Increased lengths of DNA fragments serve an upcoming goal for researchers. None 206. Forgotten Wildlife What were once considered to be treasured beings in the forests of Madagascar are currently at risk of becoming extinct. Out of 107 species of lemurs, specifically from Madagascar, 103 are now considered endangered. Based on data from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), this change was influenced by human behavior, a failing economy, and the rapid change in environmental conditions. As the spread of illegal hunting and trading continues to plague various wildlife species in Africa, the IUCN plans to prevent lemurs from completely disappearing from Earth, but it is not considered an easy task. Which of the following is true, based on the passage? The IUCN plans to prevent the extinction of lemurs by punishing anyone who contributes to factors that harm them. Human behavior has a significant impact on nature and the wildlife in it. When hunting and trading in Africa, people follow the rules and regulations set in place. All species of lemurs are at a risk of extinction. None 207. Is There Anybody Out There? For over fifty years, scientists and those fascinated with outer space have been looking for signs of intelligent life in the vast universe. Although various conspiracy theorists have debated potential sights of unidentified foreign objects and even extra-terrestrial beings, these theories lack scientific evidence. In fact, other than one small signal picked up by a powerful radio telescope in 1977, scientists have not received any communication from neighboring planets. Most scientists have understood this lack of communication as a sign that Earth is the only planet in our solar system that contains existing life forms, but does research support this idea? At first, scientists were open to the idea that living beings may have existed on planets other than Earth. This was because it was initially speculated that the universe could possibly be full of habitable planets conducive to life. However, research regarding temperature shifts on certain planets across time has disproved this theory. Data has shown that four billion years ago, planets such as Venus, Earth, and Mars, could all have been habitable. However, within approximately a billion years from their birth, the temperature changes they experienced eliminated these possibilities. Mars, for instance, became very cold, whereas Venus developed into an extremely hot planet. Thus, even if Mars and Venus were once home to initial life forms, they may not have been able to keep up with the rapidly changing environmental conditions. Once astronomers and astrobiologists understood the reality of atmospheric pressures on other planets, they relied on new theories to shed new light on the matter. They learned that the atmospheres of different planets are quite delicate and that they are not stable enough to support advanced life forms. For a planet to be effectively habitable, it must have strong atmospheric stability, which is achieved through the greenhouse effect, a process that occurs as gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the Sun. Without this possibility, surface temperatures are not suitable for life forms. Of all the planets in the Solar System, Earth has managed to play a leading role in stabilizing its climate. This is why it could not only provide, but also maintain, an environment in which humans could evolve. Since Earth is the only planet known to have this capability, it is highly improbable that the Solar System contains other intelligent life forms that would be able to interact with human beings on Earth. However, this theory does not eliminate the possibility of finding fossilized life forms on other planets. If fossils were to be found on other planets, researchers believe that they would likely only be microbial in nature, further confirming that the atmospheric pressures on different planets would not support advanced life forms. Based on the text, why is it unlikely that scientists will travel to other planets in search of life? Scientists have gathered all necessary information regarding life on other planets through the collection of UFOs. Scientists have already had communication with other planets, so there is no need to travel. Scientists have already determined that the environments on other planets are not suitable for life. Scientists do not believe that they would find life on other planets. None 208. Is There Anybody Out There? For over fifty years, scientists and those fascinated with outer space have been looking for signs of intelligent life in the vast universe. Although various conspiracy theorists have debated potential sights of unidentified foreign objects and even extra-terrestrial beings, these theories lack scientific evidence. In fact, other than one small signal picked up by a powerful radio telescope in 1977, scientists have not received any communication from neighboring planets. Most scientists have understood this lack of communication as a sign that Earth is the only planet in our solar system that contains existing life forms, but does research support this idea? At first, scientists were open to the idea that living beings may have existed on planets other than Earth. This was because it was initially speculated that the universe could possibly be full of habitable planets conducive to life. However, research regarding temperature shifts on certain planets across time has disproved this theory. Data has shown that four billion years ago, planets such as Venus, Earth, and Mars, could all have been habitable. However, within approximately a billion years from their birth, the temperature changes they experienced eliminated these possibilities. Mars, for instance, became very cold, whereas Venus developed into an extremely hot planet. Thus, even if Mars and Venus were once home to initial life forms, they may not have been able to keep up with the rapidly changing environmental conditions. Once astronomers and astrobiologists understood the reality of atmospheric pressures on other planets, they relied on new theories to shed new light on the matter. They learned that the atmospheres of different planets are quite delicate and that they are not stable enough to support advanced life forms. For a planet to be effectively habitable, it must have strong atmospheric stability, which is achieved through the greenhouse effect, a process that occurs as gases in the atmosphere trap heat from the Sun. Without this possibility, surface temperatures are not suitable for life forms. Of all the planets in the Solar System, Earth has managed to play a leading role in stabilizing its climate. This is why it could not only provide, but also maintain, an environment in which humans could evolve. Since Earth is the only planet known to have this capability, it is highly improbable that the Solar System contains other intelligent life forms that would be able to interact with human beings on Earth. However, this theory does not eliminate the possibility of finding fossilized life forms on other planets. If fossils were to be found on other planets, researchers believe that they would likely only be microbial in nature, further confirming that the atmospheric pressures on different planets would not support advanced life forms. Which of the following supports the idea that atmospheric pressure plays a pivotal role in the sustenance of life? Planets not experiencing the greenhouse effect are more likely to house life forms. Fossilized life forms could potentially be found on other planets. Scientists have learned that the atmospheres on different planets are not strong enough to support advanced life forms. Years ago, some planets in the solar system could have been home to other life forms. None 209. Interior Secrets of the Pyramids History textbooks are likely to include photographs or illustrated depictions of ancient Egyptian pyramids, showcasing their grandeur and architectural wonder. Can the same be said for authentic depictions of the internal features of these pyramids though? Thanks to a new international mission exploring the various layers of famous pyramids, scientists plan to unravel these “interior design mysteries” through the use of advanced technology. They may even prove that past archaeological exploration projects have not been as extensive as was once imagined. The four pyramids involved in the study include the two pyramids of Giza (Cheops and Chfren) along with the two pyramids of Dahshur, located south of Cairo. Initially, further research devoted to these structures seemed futile, as the 4,500-year-old pyramids have already been explored by experts. However, they have never been investigated using infrared technology, which could allow scientists to discover any additional hidden chambers in the pyramids without using destructive methods. In other words, the international team of researchers will be able to look through each structure using “X-ray vision” for the first time in history! The primary technique in the project will involve directing beams of indirect cosmic rays on the pyramids themselves. When cosmic rays bombard a certain area in the atmosphere, they produce particles known as muons, which have a high ability to traverse matter. Although the properties of muons make them excellent options for “seeing” through the pyramids’ rocks, some of them would still be absorbed by the rocks themselves. To solve this problem, scientists will use tools that are able to detect any voids in the pyramids by analyzing the number of muons that have been blocked by the structure. Past evidence of this technique, used in some pyramids in South America, shows promising results. The new technology will initially be implemented in the Rhomboid Pyramid in Dahshur, which was built by Pharaoh Sneferu approximately 4,600 years ago. The rhomboidal shape of this pyramid includes a double slope, which still puzzles scientists to this day. Most believe that the sloping side was an afterthought in construction or a quick solution to a collapsing wall. In addition to locating potential chambers inside of this pyramid, archaeologists are interested in finding any other clues that will explain the unique shape of its structure. Once testing has been wrapped up in Dahshur, the teams will make their way to Giza and use the technology once more. However, not all historians are onboard with the idea of using technology to explore these last two pyramids. Despite the fact that this new technology could unearth hidden mysteries in the structures in Giza, some scientists argue that previous methods have already exhausted all possible chambers. Although it is true that the diverse chambers of the Pyramid of Cheops have already bee verified, the new study will rule out the possibility of any additional, hidden spaces. Even if it does not lead to any new conclusions, it will prove as a testament to technology’s increasingly helpful ways of identifying the past. Based on the text, why is infrared technology especially beneficial for the exploration of Egyptian Pyramids? Infrared technology is considered advanced technology. Infrared technology has not been previously used to explore Egyptian Pyramids. Infrared technology can help confirm illustrated depictions in history textbooks. Infrared technology is non-destructive, allowing pyramids to remain intact. None 210. The first theory examined weather patterns in Botswana. Environmentalists looked into the possibility of droughts in the country, since they are the leading cause of mass deaths similar to this case. However, they were unable to confirm any recent periods of drought. In fact, the elephants did not seem to have problems accessing water or getting specific nutrients. Secondly, conservationists verified that all of the elephants contained their ivory tusks as well as all of their molars at the time of death and afterwards, eliminating any chance that poachers had something to do with the events. Although some experts initially considered that poachers may have poisoned the elephants, this theory was not plausible since other types of animals in the vicinity would have also met their deaths. However, scientists hypothesize that while a commercial poison can be ruled out as the cause, natural poisons may have something to do with the occurrence. Which of the following is a synonym of the word “drought” as it is used in the paragraph? famine flooding abundance dryness None 211. The first theory examined weather patterns in Botswana. Environmentalists looked into the possibility of droughts in the country, since they are the leading cause of mass deaths similar to this case. However, they were unable to confirm any recent periods of drought. In fact, the elephants did not seem to have problems accessing water or getting specific nutrients. Secondly, conservationists verified that all of the elephants contained their ivory tusks as well as all of their molars at the time of death and afterwards, eliminating any chance that poachers had something to do with the events. Although some experts initially considered that poachers may have poisoned the elephants, this theory was not plausible since other types of animals in the vicinity would have also met their deaths. However, scientists hypothesize that while a commercial poison can be ruled out as the cause, natural poisons may have something to do with the occurrence. What is the meaning of the word “plausible” as it is used in the paragraph? well-planned amusing easy to understand believable None 212. Based on past evidence, leading experts believe that naturally-developing anthrax poisoning may be involved, due to the symptoms elephants experienced prior to their deaths. Most elephants seemed to wander in a circle before collapsing on the ground, which has led scientists to consider the possibility of an unknown pathology attacking their central nervous system. Although a natural poison found in nearby vegetation could be the answer, it is also possible that the elephants came into contact with an unknown virus or bacteria. In any case, scientists must wait for the completed autopsies before ruling out any other ideas. However, they have already started preparing preventative measures in order to protect the endangered African Elephants from another mysterious disaster. Which word would best replace the word “prior” as it is used in the paragraph? leading previous throughout among None 213. Reaching carbon neutrality in production is vital to slowing and reversing climate change. In a fascinating development, Korean researchers are working on an artificial photosynthesis technology. It mimics natural photosynthesis by harnessing energy from sunlight to convert climate change-fueling carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable methanol, ethylene, and ethanol. Though the process has been successful in laboratory conditions, more testing is needed to translate artificial photosynthesis technology into practical field applications. Dr. Hyung Suk Oh and Dr. Woong Hee Lee hope to integrate their system with silicon solar cells for use in real, large-scale solar environments. Their work is encouraging. They have reached the highest sunlight-to-compound conversion efficiency yet, at 12.1%, in artificial photosynthesis systems for silicon solar cells. Projects like this should receive increased funding to help neutralize populations’ carbon emissions. What is the purpose of the final sentence in this paragraph? To persuade the reader about the importance of reaching carbon neutrality. To support the idea that photosynthesis technology has not been tested. To describe the Korean researchers’ project. To provide factual evidence relating to the efficiency of artificial photosynthesis. None 214. In 2020, mining corporation Rio Tinto blasted Juukan Gorges in Western Pilbara, Australia. The historically and culturally significant 46,000-year-old Aboriginal rock shelters were the only remaining Australian inland sites with signs of human life throughout the last Ice Age. Puutu Kunti Kurrama land owners mourn the irreparable loss. Rio Tinto attained ministerial consent to damage the caves in 2013. In 2014, archaeologists found new discoveries about the shelters’ ages and artifacts like 4,000-year-old human hair. State laws unbelievably allowed Rio Tinto to destroy them anyway. The shameful act is not an isolated incident. In 2019, a Sydney rail line’s construction destroyed a site, home to 2,400 18th and 19th century Aboriginal stone artifacts. Urgent legislation is needed to stop similar offenses—a current gas project threatens ancient Burrup Peninsula rock carvings. What is the author’s purpose for writing this paragraph? To explain that archaeologists found all sorts of artifacts in caves in Western Pilbara, Australia To persuade the reader that Rio Tinto has been responsible for an irreparable act of destruction To show how mining corporation Rio Tinto attained ministerial consent to destroy the caves To describe the mining project Rio Tinto has in Australia None 215. Human embryo research is controversial and ethically murky. Based on moral perspectives on human embryos, countries such as Turkey, Russia, Germany, Austria, and Italy do not allow research on human embryos. China, Japan, India, Canada, Spain, and the U.K. permit human embryo research strictly up to 14 days. Brazil and France have no such limitations. Following previous International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) standards, 14-day research limits align with when embryonic implantation completes In May 2021, ISSCR updated guidelines, encouraging academics, scientists, and institutions to discuss 14-day human embryo research limits and related ethical issues with the public. Moral and ethical concerns are highly complex and important. Human embryo research should be allowed at least up to 14 days because it can yield benefits to the study of cancer, congenital diseases, miscarriages, infertility, and human development. Why does the author include the sentence “Moral and ethical concerns are highly complex and important” in the paragraph? To introduce the idea that human embryos should not be used in research To satirize moral perspectives on human embryos To highlight the importance of ethics in science To denounce the use of human embryos in research None 216. Traditionally, type 2 diabetes control methods have involved drugs that manage risk factors including high cholesterol, blood sugar, and cholesterol. These drugs fail to treat the underlying causes of type 2 diabetes. The disease stems from issues with the ability of the hormone insulin to control blood sugar effectively. Controlling blood sugar levels with drugs is a treatment, not a cure. Research increasingly demonstrates that surgery and dieting to lose weight helps to resolve some underlying causes of type 2 diabetes. Weight loss helps the body control blood sugar on its own and can be a step towards type 2 diabetes remission. Specific diets like low-carbohydrate regimens have promising results in accomplishing remission. Low-carbohydrate diets lead to remission in one in five people, while meal-replacement diets achieve remission in about one in three people. Which of the following statements best describes the point of view of the author? For determined patients, pharmaceutical drugs are a great way to treat type 2 diabetes. Patients should try losing weight before taking drugs to control type 2 diabetes. Diets have little to no influence on stable, long-term results against type 2 diabetes. When it comes to stable long-term results, drugs are typically poor choices for treating type 2 diabetes. None 217. The Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) is a culmination of extremely large-scale ocean currents present in the top 1,000 meters of the Atlantic Ocean. Warmer water high in salt content travels northwards through a system of currents. Once the warm, salty water reaches high latitudes in the subpolar region of the North Atlantic, the water cools rapidly. Cooling makes the water denser, so it sinks down below 1,000 meters and flows south again. This giant system transports heat from the tropics and subtropics north towards Greenland, Iceland, Canada, and the U.K. The AMOC modulates weather and climate to keep the regions around it habitable. Climate models predict that the AMOC’s cycles may start slowing over the coming decades, leading to increasingly extreme weather and further disrupting climate in both warm and cool regions. Which of the following statements would the author most likely agree with? The cycles of the AMOC have changed over time, resulting in weather disruptions. The cycles of the AMOC are important to understand and can have a major effect on climates. The AMOC is not the only system put in place that regulates and transports heat to other areas. Regions would not be experiencing such drastic and extreme weather fluctuations if people paid more attention to climate change. None 218. Paleontologists have found what they call a “one in a million” fossil. Splitting rocks to find perfect fossils is painstaking. But one 310-million-year-old horseshoe crab fossil broke by chance to reveal impressions of its central nervous system. Brains consist of such delicate soft tissues and they are extraordinarily hard to preserve, even through fossilization. Soft tissues are incredibly rare to find in fossils because soft tissues decompose so quickly, especially the delicate fatty structures of the brain. To date, only about 20 fossilized arthropod neural tissue samples have been identified. The ancient arthropod’s fossilized brain bears striking resemblance to that of present-day horseshoe crabs. The impression holds valuable clues about the species’ evolution. Which of the following statements best describes the point of view of the author? Brains of horseshoe crabs are not that difficult to preserve, since their central nervous systems are conducive to preservation. The impressive discovery of soft tissue in the horseshoe crab fossil provides a new, important background on the species. The impression of the horseshoe crab fossil’s soft tissue could shed light on other species’ evolution. The fact that soft tissues are so rare means that this discovery will need to be checked for accuracy. None 219. The Original Roman Holiday The classical phrase, “All roads lead to Rome,” is used to signify the importance of the Italian capital in culture, especially in terms of navigation and architecture. Although most of us are likely familiar with this phrase — as well as the influence the early Romans had on modern infrastructure — we are probably not as informed regarding just how many of our traditions date back to the Roman empire. In fact, the next time you prepare for a beach getaway or a trip abroad, it would be worth noting that vacations were invented by noble society members in ancient Rome. Each August, government officials, their families, and affluent members of the society traveled to the brisk seaside in order to escape the scorching heat of the capital city. Evidence from the time period suggests that large estates, otherwise known as villas, were home to the wealthy citizens for nearly the entire month. The most popular holiday centers were located along what is now known to be the Gulf of Naples. Unfortunately, these lavish resorts were entirely swept away by the devastating volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, forcing anthropologists to piece together descriptions and paintings of these areas rather than collect actual artifacts. Before the tragedy, however, the three most popular resorts in the area (Herculaneum, Stabia, and Oplontis), were home to wealthy Romans once a year. Based on written accounts, the centers were finely decorated with frescoed arenas, and often contained direct access to the lush seaside and private spas. Since each location contained dedicated servants, chefs, and even farmers to tend to the guests and the area, vacationers did not typically bring their usual wait staff with them on vacations. Based on this evidence, it is clear that the Romans had all members of the society in mind when creating the August holiday season. Interestingly enough, the custom of taking vacations (or at least relaxing for a few days) in August is still popular in Italy and the surrounding countries. In fact, August 15th is still considered a national holiday in Italy, which seeks to honor the first ruler of the Roman Empire: Augustus. Not only does the name for the eighth month of the Gregorian calendar derive from this emperor’s, but the name of the bank holiday does as well. In particular, the Latin phrase, feriae Augusti, literally translates to “August’s rest”. Although vacations are now taken throughout the year, usually based on work schedules and other priorities, some areas of the world still follow traditions of ancient civilizations. What is the author’s general opinion regarding society’s knowledge of Roman traditions? Most people are generally well informed when it comes to the effects ancient Roman traditions have had on present-day society. While most people may be familiar with the influence of early Romans, they probably do not realize the lasting effects they have had on our society. Without the influence of the early Romans, we probably would not make time for vacations. Early Romans have had more influence on present-day transportation systems than on other aspects of society. None 220. The Original Roman Holiday The classical phrase, “All roads lead to Rome,” is used to signify the importance of the Italian capital in culture, especially in terms of navigation and architecture. Although most of us are likely familiar with this phrase — as well as the influence the early Romans had on modern infrastructure — we are probably not as informed regarding just how many of our traditions date back to the Roman empire. In fact, the next time you prepare for a beach getaway or a trip abroad, it would be worth noting that vacations were invented by noble society members in ancient Rome. Each August, government officials, their families, and affluent members of the society traveled to the brisk seaside in order to escape the scorching heat of the capital city. Evidence from the time period suggests that large estates, otherwise known as villas, were home to the wealthy citizens for nearly the entire month. The most popular holiday centers were located along what is now known to be the Gulf of Naples. Unfortunately, these lavish resorts were entirely swept away by the devastating volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, forcing anthropologists to piece together descriptions and paintings of these areas rather than collect actual artifacts. Before the tragedy, however, the three most popular resorts in the area (Herculaneum, Stabia, and Oplontis), were home to wealthy Romans once a year. Based on written accounts, the centers were finely decorated with frescoed arenas and often contained direct access to the lush seaside and private spas. Since each location contained dedicated servants, chefs, and even farmers to tend to the guests and the area, vacationers did not typically bring their usual wait staff with them on vacations. Based on this evidence, it is clear that the Romans had all members of the society in mind when creating the August holiday season. Interestingly enough, the custom of taking vacations (or at least relaxing for a few days) in August is still popular in Italy and the surrounding countries. In fact, August 15th is still considered a national holiday in Italy, which seeks to honor the first ruler of the Roman Empire: Augustus. Not only does the name for the eighth month of the Gregorian calendar derive from this emperor’s, but the name of the bank holiday does as well. In particular, the Latin phrase, feriae Augusti, literally translates to “August’s rest”. Although vacations are now taken throughout the year, usually based on work schedules and other priorities, some areas of the world still follow the traditions of ancient civilizations. Which supporting detail is an example of opinion, rather than fact? The typical August holiday is believed to have been created for all members of the Roman society, not just the wealthy citizens. Large estates along the Italian seaside were likely to have housed nobles during the summer months. People should note the fact that holidays were created by early Romans. The nobles of ancient Rome created and popularized the idea of a summer holiday. None 221. The Original Roman Holiday The classical phrase, “All roads lead to Rome,” is used to signify the importance of the Italian capital in culture, especially in terms of navigation and architecture. Although most of us are likely familiar with this phrase — as well as the influence the early Romans had on modern infrastructure — we are probably not as informed regarding just how many of our traditions date back to the Roman empire. In fact, the next time you prepare for a beach getaway or a trip abroad, it would be worth noting that vacations were invented by noble society members in ancient Rome. Each August, government officials, their families, and affluent members of the society traveled to the brisk seaside in order to escape the scorching heat of the capital city. Evidence from the time period suggests that large estates, otherwise known as villas, were home to the wealthy citizens for nearly the entire month. The most popular holiday centers were located along what is now known to be the Gulf of Naples. Unfortunately, these lavish resorts were entirely swept away by the devastating volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, forcing anthropologists to piece together descriptions and paintings of these areas rather than collect actual artifacts. Before the tragedy, however, the three most popular resorts in the area (Herculaneum, Stabia, and Oplontis), were home to wealthy Romans once a year. Based on written accounts, the centers were finely decorated with frescoed arenas and often contained direct access to the lush seaside and private spas. Since each location contained dedicated servants, chefs, and even farmers to tend to the guests and the area, vacationers did not typically bring their usual wait staff with them on vacations. Based on this evidence, it is clear that the Romans had all members of the society in mind when creating the August holiday season. Interestingly enough, the custom of taking vacations (or at least relaxing for a few days) in August is still popular in Italy and the surrounding countries. In fact, August 15th is still considered a national holiday in Italy, which seeks to honor the first ruler of the Roman Empire: Augustus. Not only does the name for the eighth month of the Gregorian calendar derive from this emperor’s, but the name of the bank holiday does as well. In particular, the Latin phrase, feriae Augusti, literally translates to “August’s rest”. Although vacations are now taken throughout the year, usually based on work schedules and other priorities, some areas of the world still follow the traditions of ancient civilizations. What is the author’s general opinion regarding the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD? The eruption was disadvantageous and has made anthropologists work in circumstances that are less than ideal. The eruption destroyed the beautifully detailed arenas and furnishings in the villas. It was the worst volcanic eruption in the history of Italy. The eruption likely had an effect on future holidays in ancient Rome. None 222. The Choir of the Rainforest: Heard But Not Seen Some of the most popular sounds used for relaxation purposes include white noise and sounds of the tropical rainforest. When it comes to the latter, however, the most distinct chirping noise is made by a group of insects that is easily heard but almost impossible to spot with the human eye. Insects in the Tettigoniidae family, otherwise known as “bush crickets,” are aesthetically similar to long-horned grasshoppers. Their vocal capabilities, however, are extremely unique and serve an important biological purpose. Common insects in the Tettigoniidae family, such as crickets, are easily spotted in parks and neighborhoods. But if you were to walk through a lush rainforest, you probably would not be able to spot bush crickets since they are easily camouflaged within the abundance of green leaves on enormous trees. This specific trait helps these crickets protect themselves from predators, all the while communicating with each other across large distances. For this reason, bush crickets are known as the “invisible choir” of the rainforest, discreetly providing a clear soundtrack to nature’s wonders. According to a team of researchers in the Barro Colorado Island, located in the middle of the Panama Canal, bush crickets unleash a series of distinct howls throughout the night, with the highest point occurring right before dawn. These sounds are capable of being heard up to five kilometers away. Interestingly enough, the noises made by these insects seem to be in harmony with each other and make up a deliberate communication system. In fact, the survival of tropical species depends largely on the efficiency of the loud, nightly howls and unique chirping noises of these insects. After observing this species for decades, researchers have proven that male bush crickets not only utilize the sounds to find suitable mates but are also responsible for making up a majority of them. While their female counterparts may sometimes respond to these calls with separate sounds and calls, male bush crickets are the most prominent singers of the so-called choir, responsible for innumerable howls each night. The intensity of the sounds is made possible by the speed at which the crickets rub their wings together. Additionally, each wing contains a set of minuscule “teeth,” similar to a fine-tooth comb, which vibrates and further extends the reverberation throughout the entire rainforest. In an effort to distinguish the various mating calls and additional sounds of these insects, researchers in Panama have recently recorded the voices of over 60 species in the Tettigoniidae family. With these recordings, scientists hope to develop an algorithm that will help analyze the distinct sounds and eventually match each sound with its specific species. For the time being, though, one thing is clear: there is truly more than what meets the eye—and ear—when it comes to the soundtrack of the rainforest. Which of the following ideas can be inferred from the passage? The “teeth” on the crickets’ wings help amplify their sounds. The sounds of the crickets are dependent on the size of their wings. Bush crickets make most of their sounds at night in order to hide from predators. Females only respond to males who make the loudest sounds. None 223. The Choir of the Rainforest: Heard But Not Seen Some of the most popular sounds used for relaxation purposes include white noise and sounds of the tropical rainforest. When it comes to the latter, however, the most distinct chirping noise is made by a group of insects that is easily heard but almost impossible to spot with the human eye. Insects in the Tettigoniidae family, otherwise known as “bush crickets,” are aesthetically similar to long-horned grasshoppers. Their vocal capabilities, however, are extremely unique and serve an important biological purpose. Common insects in the Tettigoniidae family, such as crickets, are easily spotted in parks and neighborhoods. But if you were to walk through a lush rainforest, you probably would not be able to spot bush crickets since they are easily camouflaged within the abundance of green leaves on enormous trees. This specific trait helps these crickets protect themselves from predators, all the while communicating with each other across large distances. For this reason, bush crickets are known as the “invisible choir” of the rainforest, discreetly providing a clear soundtrack to nature’s wonders. According to a team of researchers in the Barro Colorado Island, located in the middle of the Panama Canal, bush crickets unleash a series of distinct howls throughout the night, with the highest point occurring right before dawn. These sounds are capable of being heard up to five kilometers away. Interestingly enough, the noises made by these insects seem to be in harmony with each other and make up a deliberate communication system. In fact, the survival of tropical species depends largely on the efficiency of the loud, nightly howls and unique chirping noises of these insects. After observing this species for decades, researchers have proven that male bush crickets not only utilize the sounds to find suitable mates but are also responsible for making up a majority of them. While their female counterparts may sometimes respond to these calls with separate sounds and calls, male bush crickets are the most prominent singers of the so-called choir, responsible for innumerable howls each night. The intensity of the sounds is made possible by the speed at which the crickets rub their wings together. Additionally, each wing contains a set of minuscule “teeth,” similar to a fine-tooth comb, which vibrates and further extends the reverberation throughout the entire rainforest. In an effort to distinguish the various mating calls and additional sounds of these insects, researchers in Panama have recently recorded the voices of over 60 species in the Tettigoniidae family. With these recordings, scientists hope to develop an algorithm that will help analyze the distinct sounds and eventually match each sound with its specific species. For the time being, though, one thing is clear: there is truly more than what meets the eye—and ear—when it comes to the soundtrack of the rainforest. Which of the following inferences can be made from the passage? It has been a challenge for scientists to distinguish between bush crickets and other organisms living in the rainforest. Scientists are gathering information in order to be able to identify different species based on their distinct sounds. There is a clear difference between mating calls and the other sounds that bush crickets use. The total number of species of bush crickets living in rainforests around the world has been determined by scientists. None 224. Neuroscience in the Classroom When it comes to early childhood education, could principles of neuroscience and experimental studies help educators teach more effectively? This is a popular question studied by leading international psychologists and research analysts focusing on educational psychology. However, the answer to this question requires advanced technological research tools, detailed scientific analyses, and, above all, time and patience to understand the results. Over the past ten years, innovative research centers have helped scientists understand how neural mechanisms impact children’s learning behavior. In other words, the study of neuroscience is opening new doors for analyzing how children learn basic functions. Neuroimaging, for example, is just one of the ways that scientists have been able to link visual capabilities with how well children comprehend letters of the alphabet. Although various concepts in early childhood education, such as observation and communication, are already understood within the scientific community and applied in the classroom setting, neuroscience allows psychologists to create completely new theories regarding childhood development. Currently, it is estimated that the discipline has allowed for the discovery of four pillars of learning: attentiveness, active output, feedback, and motor skills. The first learning pillar, i.e., attentiveness, is described as a child’s ability to digest both general and detailed concepts. That is, it helps children understand the “big picture” of a subject and focus in on the details when necessary. The second pillar, i.e., active output, seeks to quantify the verbal and written productivity of a student based on information received in the classroom. The third pillar, i.e., feedback, involves a child’s ability to self-assess and provide regular checks when understanding the material that has been learned. This pillar is noteworthy since it calls for both the feedback of the individual and that of the educator. Last but not the least, motor skills are acquired through daily repetition of what has been learned. Thanks to natural sleep cycles, this information is consolidated and stored in the brain for future access. An important part of these pillars is the concept of automatization, which occurs when a skill has been practiced so much that it becomes second nature and requires little to no conscious effort. However, according to leading experts at the Sorbonne University in Paris, a number of systematic errors can still present themselves with automatization. For instance, studies have shown that younger students seem to make simple mistakes in logic and reasoning problems in classroom settings, even though these tasks involve automatization. Researchers believe that training the brain through neuroscience practices can eliminate the occurrence of these mistakes while strengthening automatization. The abundance of research pertaining to neuroscience in the classroom as well as the increasingly vast possibilities of new theories have led to the development of a new field: neuroeducation. However, as with any new discipline, it will need to overcome hurdles within the scientific community. Although projects and collaborations between scientists and educators around the world are growing, gaining acceptance within the educational sphere will likely require more stable results to establish credibility. Which of the following ideas can be inferred from the text? Neuroscience can shed light on the ways in which students acquire fundamental information. Neuroimaging provides insights only into language-based learning procedures. Neuroscience will provide new information regarding popular concepts in childhood development. Contrary to past research, neural mechanisms do not play an integral role in childhood development. None 225. A “Clean” Replacement For Bees With the recent decline of bees and bumblebees, botanists have teamed up with scientists to answer a question that seems to become more important as time goes on: will it ever be possible to replace bees? The answers to this question may ultimately decide how the environment will be impacted once the likely extinction of bees takes place. Although it would be hard to replicate the intense labor of these life-sustaining pollinators, new technology may assist in finding alternative, practical solutions with the use of drones and a household cleaning supply: soap! Since 2017, researchers at the Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Japan have started replicating the necessary components for the fruitful pollination of various plants. They have discovered that employing the use of drones could effectively administer droplets of pollen to plants, similar to how bees would collect and distribute pollen in natural circumstances. Through numerous efforts of trial and error, however, the scientists have realized that even the smallest drones (measuring around four centimeters) could potentially damage the delicate nature of plants. Despite the rough, metallic exteriors of drones, researchers discovered a way to successfully utilize them in the pollination process. Instead of instructing the drones to drop pollen directly into each plant, they would release soft soap bubbles instead, which would safely encase the pollen and open upon contact with the plant. In order to develop a balanced mixture of all ingredients, pollen grains were first mixed with a nutrient-enriched soap solution that contained a low level of plant toxicity. The soap’s components were of maximum importance in this matter, since they could drastically alter the plants’ absorption of each pollen granule. Once the chemical levels of the soapy mixture were finalized, testing on actual Japanese pear plants began. After the drone dispersed the soap suds, each flower came into contact with approximately 2,000 granules of pollen. The team waited nearly two weeks for extremely positive results; the artificial process had provided as many fruitful results as would have been attained with natural pollination. Given the fact that most pollination of pear and apple trees is done by hand in Japan, this method would allow many more plants to be fertilized with the same amount of pollen in drastically less time. Although initial tests have produced positive results, the weather is likely to have a negative impact on the method’s immediate success. As of now, the bubbles’ efficiency is largely dependent on the weather, and could “pop” at inopportune times due to strong gusts of wind and even the slightest rain showers. Researchers believe that these problems could be solved with technology and robotic engineering programs. With more research and development, they hope to design an automated system that could map out the most logical routes based on daily weather forecasting and growth patterns. While these drones were established to solve a potential problem of extinction, they may help cut back costs of labor involved in fertilization. What can be inferred regarding the impact of weather on the pollination method with soap suds? It presents problems that are difficult, if not impossible, to solve. It can negatively influence the effectiveness of the process. It can help the speed and efficiency of the soap suds. It can possibly help the project’s long-term success. None 226. A “Clean” Replacement For Bees With the recent decline of bees and bumblebees, botanists have teamed up with scientists to answer a question that seems to become more important as time goes on: will it ever be possible to replace bees? The answers to this question may ultimately decide how the environment will be impacted once the likely extinction of bees takes place. Although it would be hard to replicate the intense labor of these life-sustaining pollinators, new technology may assist in finding alternative, practical solutions with the use of drones and a household cleaning supply: soap! Since 2017, researchers at the Advanced Institute of Science and Technology in Japan have started replicating the necessary components for the fruitful pollination of various plants. They have discovered that employing the use of drones could effectively administer droplets of pollen to plants, similar to how bees would collect and distribute pollen in natural circumstances. Through numerous efforts of trial and error, however, the scientists have realized that even the smallest drones (measuring around four centimeters) could potentially damage the delicate nature of plants. Despite the rough, metallic exteriors of drones, researchers discovered a way to successfully utilize them in the pollination process. Instead of instructing the drones to drop pollen directly into each plant, they would release soft soap bubbles instead, which would safely encase the pollen and open upon contact with the plant. In order to develop a balanced mixture of all ingredients, pollen grains were first mixed with a nutrient-enriched soap solution that contained a low level of plant toxicity. The soap’s components were of maximum importance in this matter, since they could drastically alter the plants’ absorption of each pollen granule. Once the chemical levels of the soapy mixture were finalized, testing on actual Japanese pear plants began. After the drone dispersed the soap suds, each flower came into contact with approximately 2,000 granules of pollen. The team waited nearly two weeks for extremely positive results; the artificial process had provided as many fruitful results as would have been attained with natural pollination. Given the fact that most pollination of pear and apple trees is done by hand in Japan, this method would allow many more plants to be fertilized with the same amount of pollen in drastically less time. Although initial tests have produced positive results, the weather is likely to have a negative impact on the method’s immediate success. As of now, the bubbles’ efficiency is largely dependent on the weather, and could “pop” at inopportune times due to strong gusts of wind and even the slightest rain showers. Researchers believe that these problems could be solved with technology and robotic engineering programs. With more research and development, they hope to design an automated system that could map out the most logical routes based on daily weather forecasting and growth patterns. While these drones were established to solve a potential problem of extinction, they may help cut back costs of labor involved in fertilization. Based on information in the passage, which of the following points can be inferred regarding the benefits of the proposed pollination system developed by the researchers? It may prove useful in areas outside of the project’s original scope of replacing bees. Although the original benefit involved cutting back labor costs, it will likely also help with the extinction of bees. The decreased costs of labor will prove more useful than the replacement of bees. The weather will play a large role in the benefits of the system. None 227. The rampant genetic disorder cystic fibrosis impacts primarily the lungs. It causes repeated lung infections, labored breathing, and coughing up mucus. Cystic fibrosis is incurable and also affects the kidneys, liver, pancreas, and intestine. At Hubrecht Institute, UMC Utrecht, and Oncode Institute, researchers manipulated cultured human stem cells to interfere with mutations that cause cystic fibrosis. Through a method called prime editing, they replaced the flawed DNA pieces with healthy ones. Prime editing of genes is a safer variation of the gene-editing technique known as CRISPR/Cas9. The CRISPR/Cas9 approach involves cutting the DNA, which damages other parts of the genome. Prime editing is safer than CRISPR/Cas9 because it builds a new piece of DNA without causing damage. Based on the information regarding CRISPR/Cas9, what can be inferred about its role in the eradication of cystic fibrosis? CRISPR/Cas9 is a completely safe method to cure cystic fibrosis. CRISPR/Cas9 can affect the lungs and other organs. CRISPR/Cas9 is the only solution available to eliminate mutations that cause cystic fibrosis. Although CRISPR/Cas9 helps get rid of flawed DNA pieces, it involves more risks than prime editing. None 228. Understanding Stress Mechanisms Meeting deadlines, presenting important projects, or balancing professional and personal priorities are just a few ways that people experience stress on a daily basis. Despite the fact that most of these stress-inducing activities seem to stem from outside factors, our internal response to stress plays an important role in managing the ebbs and flows of life. In fact, the brain has an excellent way of establishing a resilient response system, but most of us probably do not realize the power that the mind can have over stressful situations. When confronted with a difficult situation, the mind activates its very own defense system which starts from the most “instinctive” zone of the brain: the hippocampus and the amygdala. These parts of the brain are extremely important structures. The hippocampus, located in the temporal lobe, is responsible for declarative or episodic memory. The two amygdala, on the other hand, are located close to the hippocampus and are essential for the input and processing of emotion. Thus, these two regions of the brain interact during emotional events, in order to translate the events into outcomes. For example, in an anxiety-inducing situation, the two structures would likely unleash a series of hormones that would generate negative emotions, such as anxiety. However, responses to stress involve much more than just the hippocampus and the amygdala. Specifically, when it comes to hormones, another important factor is the reaction of the pituitary gland, which is attached to the base of the brain. This gland is commonly referred to as the “master gland”, since it is known for controlling the output of most hormones in the body. For this reason, it interacts with the responses from the hippocampus and the amygdala. Soon after the pituitary gland takes action, the adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that keeps the body in a state of alertness. Prominent markers of this state include an increased heartbeat, profuse sweating, and heavy breathing. Finally, these actions trigger the glucose reserved in the liver to be released into the bloodstream, providing a quick dose of energy and preparing a person for an acute stress response, which is commonly known as the “fight-or-flight” response. Although it is common to attribute these dramatic responses to stress in cases of physical harm, such as getting into a car accident, the body maintains this reaction even in instances of emotional stress. As such, it would not be unusual for someone with a fear of public speaking to go through the same emotions, or experience an anxiety-induced physical state, before delivering a speech in front of a large crowd. After all, the brain is concerned with protecting the body from all types of uncomfortable situations. What is the best way to summarize the fourth paragraph? The “fight-or-flight” response occurs when someone is reacting to a stressful situation. The main role of the brain is to protect the body from stressful situations. It is crucial for someone without a glucose reserve to avoid stressful situations. Situations involving either physical or emotional distress will produce the same chemical reaction as a response. None 229. Understanding Stress Mechanisms Meeting deadlines, presenting important projects, or balancing professional and personal priorities are just a few ways that people experience stress on a daily basis. Despite the fact that most of these stress-inducing activities seem to stem from outside factors, our internal response to stress plays an important role in managing the ebbs and flows of life. In fact, the brain has an excellent way of establishing a resilient response system, but most of us probably do not realize the power that the mind can have over stressful situations. When confronted with a difficult situation, the mind activates its very own defense system which starts from the most “instinctive” zone of the brain: the hippocampus and the amygdala. These parts of the brain are extremely important structures. The hippocampus, located in the temporal lobe, is responsible for declarative or episodic memory. The two amygdala, on the other hand, are located close to the hippocampus and are essential for the input and processing of emotion. Thus, these two regions of the brain interact during emotional events, in order to translate the events into outcomes. For example, in an anxiety-inducing situation, the two structures would likely unleash a series of hormones that would generate negative emotions, such as anxiety. However, responses to stress involve much more than just the hippocampus and the amygdala. Specifically, when it comes to hormones, another important factor is the reaction of the pituitary gland, which is attached to the base of the brain. This gland is commonly referred to as the “master gland”, since it is known for controlling the output of most hormones in the body. For this reason, it interacts with the responses from the hippocampus and the amygdala. Soon after the pituitary gland takes action, the adrenal glands produce cortisol, a hormone that keeps the body in a state of alertness. Prominent markers of this state include an increased heartbeat, profuse sweating, and heavy breathing. Finally, these actions trigger the glucose reserved in the liver to be released into the bloodstream, providing a quick dose of energy and preparing a person for an acute stress response, which is commonly known as the “fight-or-flight” response. Although it is common to attribute these dramatic responses to stress in cases of physical harm, such as getting into a car accident, the body maintains this reaction even in instances of emotional stress. As such, it would not be unusual for someone with a fear of public speaking to go through the same emotions, or experience an anxiety-induced physical state, before delivering a speech in front of a large crowd. After all, the brain is concerned with protecting the body from all types of uncomfortable situations. What is the best summary of the passage? Most people would be surprised to learn of the thorough process that the body develops as a reaction to external stress factors. Although the physical side effects are evident, communication between various organs is perhaps less understood. The body’s response to stressful situations consists of responses from various organs that communicate and work together. Although these reactions happen internally, they can also produce physical side effects during instances considered to be difficult for someone on an emotional or physical level. The brain spearheads one’s response to a stressful situation by activating the hippocampus and amygdala. Then, these two regions of the brain alert the pituitary gland and the adrenal gland to produce necessary hormones for stress regulation. The “fight-or-flight” response is the most obvious reaction to external stress. Thanks to the pituitary and adrenal glands, the body regulates stressful situations and supplies a person with the energy needed to react swiftly and appropriately. None 230. The anesthetic drug ketamine is emerging as a potential depression treatment. Ketamine is used recreationally due to psychedelic effects. Clinically, two-thirds of patients experience relief from weeks of severe depression within hours of just a single ketamine dose. The early results are promising compared to limited results from conventional antidepressants. Researchers suspect that ketamine treats depression by influencing the neurotransmitter glutamate. Elevated glutamate release is associated with depression, stress, and mood disorders. In some brain regions, ketamine increases glutamate release. Other areas such as the prefrontal cortex decrease glutamate release in response to ketamine. Microscopic analysis shows ketamine encouraging neurons to release more adenosine, blocking glutamate production. There are still concerns about ketamine’s side effects. It is psychoactive and can cause fatigue, anxiety, restlessness, hallucinations, and dizziness. What is the best summary of the passage? Although ketamine could be useful in treating depression, its potentially dangerous side effects are troubling. Glutamate release plays a large part in depression and other mood disorders but can be decreased by the prefrontal cortex. Most people believe that ketamine is a dangerous drug that produces psychedelic effects and are not aware of its potentially beneficial traits. Early-stage research suspects that ketamine, an anesthetic drug that is typically taken recreationally, could treat depression through its interactions with regions of the brain. None 231. Concussions: Concussions are brain injuries that occur when a person receives a blow to the head, face, or neck. Although most people who suffer a concussion experience initial bouts of dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness, these symptoms often disappear after a few days. The long-term effects of concussions, however, are less understood and far more severe. Recent studies suggest that people who suffer multiple concussions are at significant risk for developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disorder that causes a variety of dangerous mental and emotional problems to arise weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury. These psychological problems can include depression, anxiety, memory loss, inability to concentrate, and aggression. In extreme cases, people suffering from CTE have even committed suicide or homicide. The majority of people who develop these issues are athletes who participate in popular high-impact sports, especially football. Improvements in diagnostic technology have provided substantial evidence to link severe—and often fatal—psychological disorders to the head injuries players receive while on the field. Recent autopsies performed on the brains of football players who have committed suicide have shown advanced cases of CTE in every single victim. In response to the growing understanding of this danger, the National Football League (NFL) has revised its safety regulations. There is hope that these new regulations, coupled with advances in helmet design, will reduce the number of concussions player endure, and thus curb the number of CTE cases. Efforts by the NFL and other professional sports leagues are certainly laudable. However, new regulations at the professional level cannot protect amateur players, especially young people. Fatal cases of CTE have been reported in victims as young as 21. With appropriate equipment and form, tackling need not be dangerous. Proper tackling form—using the arms and shoulders to aim for a player’s midsection rather than leading with the top of the head—should be taught at an early age. Youth, high school, and college leagues should also adopt safety rules even more stringent than the NFL’s. Question: Which best explains the author’s opinion regarding the National Football League’s (NFL) response to concussion dangers? Efforts have not been studied closely enough and need to be developed for amateur leagues. While commendable, it needs to be more inclusive and adaptable for other professional levels and leagues. The NFL should be the first to implement safety rules for less professional leagues and pioneer safety education in the sports sector. Although the response was necessary, not much can be done regarding the lack of funding for appropriate equipment. None 232. Concussions: Concussions are brain injuries that occur when a person receives a blow to the head, face, or neck. Although most people who suffer a concussion experience initial bouts of dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness, these symptoms often disappear after a few days. The long-term effects of concussions, however, are less understood and far more severe. Recent studies suggest that people who suffer multiple concussions are at significant risk for developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disorder that causes a variety of dangerous mental and emotional problems to arise weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury. These psychological problems can include depression, anxiety, memory loss, inability to concentrate, and aggression. In extreme cases, people suffering from CTE have even committed suicide or homicide. The majority of people who develop these issues are athletes who participate in popular high-impact sports, especially football. Improvements in diagnostic technology have provided substantial evidence to link severe—and often fatal—psychological disorders to the head injuries players receive while on the field. Recent autopsies performed on the brains of football players who have committed suicide have shown advanced cases of CTE in every single victim. In response to the growing understanding of this danger, the National Football League (NFL) has revised its safety regulations. There is hope that these new regulations, coupled with advances in helmet design, will reduce the number of concussions player endure, and thus curb the number of CTE cases. Efforts by the NFL and other professional sports leagues are certainly laudable. However, new regulations at the professional level cannot protect amateur players, especially young people. Fatal cases of CTE have been reported in victims as young as 21. With appropriate equipment and form, tackling need not be dangerous. Proper tackling form—using the arms and shoulders to aim for a player’s midsection rather than leading with the top of the head—should be taught at an early age. Youth, high school, and college leagues should also adopt safety rules even more stringent than the NFL’s. Question: What is the primary purpose of the passage? To inform the reader of the dangerous disorder, CTE, while responding to examples of the efforts that have been made to decrease the harmful effects of contact sports. To persuade the reader to take action against the NFL’s most recent response to the increased cases of CTE. To inform the reader of the typical warning signs associated with those who have been diagnosed with CTE. To spread awareness regarding CTE’s debilitating symptoms and disastrous long-term effects in the athletic community. None 233. Concussions: Concussions are brain injuries that occur when a person receives a blow to the head, face, or neck. Although most people who suffer a concussion experience initial bouts of dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness, these symptoms often disappear after a few days. The long-term effects of concussions, however, are less understood and far more severe. Recent studies suggest that people who suffer multiple concussions are at significant risk for developing chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disorder that causes a variety of dangerous mental and emotional problems to arise weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury. These psychological problems can include depression, anxiety, memory loss, inability to concentrate, and aggression. In extreme cases, people suffering from CTE have even committed suicide or homicide. The majority of people who develop these issues are athletes who participate in popular high-impact sports, especially football. Improvements in diagnostic technology have provided substantial evidence to link severe—and often fatal—psychological disorders to the head injuries players receive while on the field. Recent autopsies performed on the brains of football players who have committed suicide have shown advanced cases of CTE in every single victim. In response to the growing understanding of this danger, the National Football League (NFL) has revised its safety regulations. There is hope that these new regulations, coupled with advances in helmet design, will reduce the number of concussions player endure, and thus curb the number of CTE cases. Efforts by the NFL and other professional sports leagues are certainly laudable. However, new regulations at the professional level cannot protect amateur players, especially young people. Fatal cases of CTE have been reported in victims as young as 21. With appropriate equipment and form, tackling need not be dangerous. Proper tackling form—using the arms and shoulders to aim for a player’s midsection rather than leading with the top of the head—should be taught at an early age. Youth, high school, and college leagues should also adopt safety rules even more stringent than the NFL’s. Question: What is the meaning of the word ‘degenerative’ used in the second paragraph to describe ‘a degenerative brain disorder’? Modern Tending to deteriorate Conservative Psychological None 234. Hiccups: At some point in your life, you have probably had the hiccups. Hiccups are caused by spasms in the diaphragm, a muscle located at the bottom of your chest. As we inhale, the diaphragm contracts, pulling air into the lungs. As we exhale, the diaphragm relaxes, pushing air back out through the mouth and nose. When we hiccup, the diaphragm jerks downward suddenly, pulling a quick burst of air into our lungs. As the air rushes into your body, it hits the voice box. This causes your vocal cords to snap shut, creating the sound we recognize as a hiccup. Hiccups can be triggered by many different things—eating too much, drinking too fast, sudden change of temperature, stress, fatigue, nervousness, and even excessive laughter can all cause the hiccups. While there are many home remedies for hiccups, there is no evidence to suggest that any of them are actually effective. In fact, most cases of the hiccups go away on their own. Although hiccups are usually harmless, they can be a sign of something more serious. Long-term hiccups might be a result of damage to the nerves that serve the diaphragm muscle. Persistent hiccups might also be caused by certain central nervous system disorders, traumatic brain injuries, drug abuse, or kidney disease. Question: What can be inferred about some cases of persistent hiccups? They might lead to a traumatic brain injury. They can cause certain nervous system disorders. They should be treated with home remedies. They could require a doctor’s attention. None 235. Hiccups: At some point in your life, you have probably had the hiccups. Hiccups are caused by spasms in the diaphragm, a muscle located at the bottom of your chest. As we inhale, the diaphragm contracts, pulling air into the lungs. As we exhale, the diaphragm relaxes, pushing air back out through the mouth and nose. When we hiccup, the diaphragm jerks downward suddenly, pulling a quick burst of air into our lungs. As the air rushes into your body, it hits the voice box. This causes your vocal cords to snap shut, creating the sound we recognize as a hiccup. Hiccups can be triggered by many different things—eating too much, drinking too fast, sudden change of temperature, stress, fatigue, nervousness, and even excessive laughter can all cause the hiccups. While there are many home remedies for hiccups, there is no evidence to suggest that any of them are actually effective. In fact, most cases of the hiccups go away on their own. Although hiccups are usually harmless, they can be a sign of something more serious. Long-term hiccups might be a result of damage to the nerves that serve the diaphragm muscle. Persistent hiccups might also be caused by certain central nervous system disorders, traumatic brain injuries, drug abuse, or kidney disease. Question: What is the meaning of the word spasms in paragraph 1? Quick, uncontrollable movements Diseases Small muscles A pockets of air None 236. Hiccups: At some point in your life, you have probably had the hiccups. Hiccups are caused by spasms in the diaphragm, a muscle located at the bottom of your chest. As we inhale, the diaphragm contracts, pulling air into the lungs. As we exhale, the diaphragm relaxes, pushing air back out through the mouth and nose. When we hiccup, the diaphragm jerks downward suddenly, pulling a quick burst of air into our lungs. As the air rushes into your body, it hits the voice box. This causes your vocal cords to snap shut, creating the sound we recognize as a hiccup. Hiccups can be triggered by many different things—eating too much, drinking too fast, sudden change of temperature, stress, fatigue, nervousness, and even excessive laughter can all cause the hiccups. While there are many home remedies for hiccups, there is no evidence to suggest that any of them are actually effective. In fact, most cases of the hiccups go away on their own. Although hiccups are usually harmless, they can be a sign of something more serious. Long-term hiccups might be a result of damage to the nerves that serve the diaphragm muscle. Persistent hiccups might also be caused by certain central nervous system disorders, traumatic brain injuries, drug abuse, or kidney disease. Question: What is the best summary of the passage? Most people have probably had the hiccups before. They can be caused by many things including overeating, drinking too quickly, and sudden changes in temperature just to name a few. Hiccups occur when the diaphragm jerks down quickly, causing air to enter our lungs quickly. As this air rushes into the body, it hits the voice box, causing the vocal cords to slam shut, creating the characteristic hiccup sound. The hiccups can cause a number of problems including central nervous system disorders, traumatic brain injuries, drug abuse, and kidney disease. The hiccups, which are caused by spasms in the diaphragm, can be caused by a number of things. Although they are usually harmless and go away by themselves, persistent hiccups could be the sign of a serious medical issue. None 237. Preventing Heart Disease: Heart disease is a life-threatening condition that kills millions of people every year. In fact, heart disease is the number one killer of human beings worldwide; over thirty percent of deaths every year are due to some form of cardiovascular disease. Although there are many different types of medications and surgical procedures that can treat heart disease, prevention is the most important factor in reducing the number of deaths. Proper nutrition is important in preventing heart disease. The recommended diet for a healthy heart is low in saturated fats, cholesterol, salt, and refined sugar. The diet should be high in fiber, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption should be avoided. Smoking increases the risk for heart disease at least ten-fold, and drinking too much alcohol can raise the levels of some fats in the blood and lead to high blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular damage. Lack of physical exercise can also make a person more likely to suffer from heart disease. Participating regularly in aerobic exercise, which can include walking, jogging, dancing, or swimming, significantly reduces the risk of heart disease. Another contributor to heart disease is stress. Constant stress can expose your body to persistently elevated levels of the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. High levels of these hormones can increase blood pressure and damage artery walls. Engaging in yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques can be helpful in reducing stress and lowering the risk for heart disease. Question: Why does the author begin the passage with statistics regarding heart disease, such as “over thirty percent of deaths every year” ? To introduce a theory on a worldwide response to heart disease. To support the fact that heart disease is a global threat. To warn the reader regarding the dangers of heart disease. To justify medicinal treatments for heart disease. None 238. Wrinkles: Skin wrinkles are caused by a variety of factors. Some of these factors are intrinsic, meaning that you cannot control them because they occur naturally. Others are extrinsic, meaning that they are caused by circumstances outside of the body. One intrinsic factor is aging. As you age, your skin loses collagen, which is the protein responsible for keeping your skin elastic. With less collagen, your skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Aging also reduces the functioning of sweat and oil glands, which work to keep the skin looking smooth. You also lose fat in the deeper layers of your skin as you age. This fat loss causes your skin to sag and develop deeper wrinkles. The two most common extrinsic factors are exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) and smoking. UV rays in sunlight break down your skin’s connective tissue and collagen fibers. To prevent the appearance of wrinkles (as well as protect yourself from skin cancer), you should always use UV-blocking sunscreen. The nicotine in cigarettes is the most likely link between smoking and wrinkles. Nicotine narrows the blood vessels, reducing the blood supply to your skin tissue. This deprives your skin of oxygen and important nutrients, causing damage that contributes to wrinkles. Question: According to the text, what can be inferred from skin that has gone through the aging process? It has less collagen compared to younger skin. It will have a smooth and saggy appearance. It has developed a thick texture. It is still elastic when compared to younger skin. None 239. Wrinkles: Skin wrinkles are caused by a variety of factors. Some of these factors are intrinsic, meaning that you cannot control them because they occur naturally. Others are extrinsic, meaning that they are caused by circumstances outside of the body. One intrinsic factor is aging. As you age, your skin loses collagen, which is the protein responsible for keeping your skin elastic. With less collagen, your skin becomes thinner and more fragile. Aging also reduces the functioning of sweat and oil glands, which work to keep the skin looking smooth. You also lose fat in the deeper layers of your skin as you age. This fat loss causes your skin to sag and develop deeper wrinkles. The two most common extrinsic factors are exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV rays) and smoking. UV rays in sunlight break down your skin’s connective tissue and collagen fibers. To prevent the appearance of wrinkles (as well as protect yourself from skin cancer), you should always use UV-blocking sunscreen. The nicotine in cigarettes is the most likely link between smoking and wrinkles. Nicotine narrows the blood vessels, reducing the blood supply to your skin tissue. This deprives your skin of oxygen and important nutrients, causing damage that contributes to wrinkles. Question: Based on information provided in the text, which would NOT be an example of an extrinsic factor? Getting older Sun exposure Smoking Not using UV-blocking sunscreen when exposed to the sun None 240. Dissociative Identity Disorder: Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly called multiple personality disorder, is a severe psychological condition in which two or more distinct identities are present in an individual. There has been a dramatic increase in the number of diagnosed cases of DID in the past 30 years. There has also been an increase in the number of different personalities reported, as well as more unusual personalities. This may be due to an increased awareness of the disease among clinicians. However, it might also be because there have been so many sensational portrayals of DID in popular media. Some believe that people fake the disorder in order to absolve themselves of guilt or gain attention. However, there is a good deal of research that suggests that DID is a legitimate illness. One of the strongest pieces of evidence is fact that it is found all over the world. There have been cases of DID reported in cities and villages across Turkey, Nigeria, Ethiopia, China, and India, among other places. It is unlikely that people living in rural or remote places have been influenced by portrayals of DID in films or television shows. Others argue that DID is the creation of overzealous clinicians who (unwittingly) induce highly suggestible clients to believe they have multiple personalities. These clinicians encourage clients to “bring out” the other personalities during hypnosis and reward them with praise for doing so, which then makes the clients more likely to believe that the other personalities are real. If this is the case, it may not be a “genuine” illness in that the clinicians have created it, but is this any different than a “genuine” mental illness that is fostered by other people’s influences on a client’s life? No matter what has caused the illness, it causes significant distress to the client, and therefore must be treated as a serious and “genuine” problem. Question: What is the best summary for the passage? DID, formerly known as multiple personality disorder, is a serious psychological condition that affects people worldwide. The incidence of the disorder has dramatically increased in the past 30 years. DID is a psychological condition in which two or more personalities are present in an individual. Some people think that it is a fake disease caused by the media or overzealous doctors. However, because it causes severe distress, it should be treated as a serious problem. The incidence of DID, a psychological disorder that causes a person to have two or more distinct personalities, is on the rise. Interestingly, the disorder has been proven to be a fake one that people use to absolve themselves of guilt or pain. DID is a psychological disorder whereby two or more personalities are present in one person. Some believe that it is a fake disorder, influenced by the media. Others think the disorder is caused by clinicians who induce suggestible clients to believe that they have the disorder. None 241. Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects an estimated 3-6% of the world’s population. The disorder is characterized by both physiological and psychological symptoms, including nerve pain, fatigue, sleep and mood disturbances, headaches, bowel problems, and incontinence. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. For some people, fibromyalgia symptoms begin after some sort of physical or psychological stress. However, for others, the onset of symptoms is gradual. Research has shown that genetics may play a part, but there is also evidence that environmental factors can contribute. The wide variety of symptoms made it difficult to diagnose and treat for many years, though recent research has made some promising advances. Although a cure for fibromyalgia has not yet been developed, research has shown that some of the symptoms can be treated with pharmaceuticals, such as tricyclics or gabapentinoids, or non-pharmacological methods, such as meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive behavior therapy. The most successful pharmacological treatment for fibromyalgia has been tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline. These drugs increase the levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, which are often found at decreased levels in the brains of people who suffer from chronic pain. By boosting endorphins and relaxing muscles, tricyclics can ease some of the musculoskeletal pain felt by people with fibromyalgia. Question: What is the main idea of the passage? Scientists think that fibromyalgia might be a genetic disease, as there is little evidence that environmental factors play any role. Fibromyalgia has a number of physical and psychological symptoms including nerve pain, fatigue, and mood disturbances to name a few. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by both physiological and psychological symptoms and can be treated but not cured. The varied symptoms of Fibromyalgia often manifest themselves after some sort of physical or psychological stress. None 242. Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that affects an estimated 3-6% of the world’s population. The disorder is characterized by both physiological and psychological symptoms, including nerve pain, fatigue, sleep and mood disturbances, headaches, bowel problems, and incontinence. The exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown. For some people, fibromyalgia symptoms begin after some sort of physical or psychological stress. However, for others, the onset of symptoms is gradual. Research has shown that genetics may play a part, but there is also evidence that environmental factors can contribute. The wide variety of symptoms made it difficult to diagnose and treat for many years, though recent research has made some promising advances. Although a cure for fibromyalgia has not yet been developed, research has shown that some of the symptoms can be treated with pharmaceuticals, such as tricyclics or gabapentinoids, or non-pharmacological methods, such as meditation, mindfulness, and cognitive behavior therapy. The most successful pharmacological treatment for fibromyalgia has been tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline. These drugs increase the levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine, which are often found at decreased levels in the brains of people who suffer from chronic pain. By boosting endorphins and relaxing muscles, tricyclics can ease some of the musculoskeletal pain felt by people with fibromyalgia. Question: Which of the following statements would the author most likely agree with? The best treatment for fibromyalgia includes both drugs and nonpharmacological methods. Fibromyalgia can lead to death if it is not treated early enough. The majority of symptoms brought on by fibromyalgia are psychological in nature. Fibromyalgia is a condition that cannot be passed down from generation to generation. None 243. Does Low Body Temperature Cause Illness?: As children, we are often told to dress warmly in the winter so we do not get sick. This is a common piece of advice, but is there any truth behind it? In fact, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that being cold can get you sick. Most illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria. Illnesses like strep throat, influenza, and the common cold are only spread through contact with other infected people. How cold you are when you come into contact with the virus or bacteria has nothing to do with whether or not you will get sick. The effect of body temperature on contracting illness was tested on human beings in the 1950s. Researchers divided volunteers into two groups: half of them were kept in a warm room and the other half were kept in a cold room. Both groups were then exposed to rhinovirus–the virus responsible for the common cold. The researchers discovered that members of both groups developed colds at the same rate. Since that first experiment, there have been similar experiments performed with a variety of different illnesses. All have yielded the same result: being cold does not make a person more likely to get sick. Of course, it does seem that people do get sick more often when the weather is cold. However, this is because there is some evidence that people do get sick more often in cold weather, but it has nothing to do with forgetting to bundle up when it is chilly. When it is cold outside, people tend to stay inside. With so many people gathered closely together indoors, germs are spread more easily. Germs are spread from person to person, regardless of how cold or warm their bodies are. Based on information in the text, what can be inferred regarding the findings of the experiment described in paragraph 2? Had the temperatures been different, the groups would have contracted the common cold all the same. If the experiment had included different variations of temperature, the results would have been different. The groups must have had similar health backgrounds. Temperature may have had an effect on the groups’ reactions to the rhinovirus. None 244. Does Low Body Temperature Cause Illness?: As children, we are often told to dress warmly in the winter so we do not get sick. This is a common piece of advice, but is there any truth behind it? In fact, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that being cold can get you sick. Most illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria. Illnesses like strep throat, influenza, and the common cold are only spread through contact with other infected people. How cold you are when you come into contact with the virus or bacteria has nothing to do with whether or not you will get sick. The effect of body temperature on contracting illness was tested on human beings in the 1950s. Researchers divided volunteers into two groups: half of them were kept in a warm room and the other half were kept in a cold room. Both groups were then exposed to rhinovirus–the virus responsible for the common cold. The researchers discovered that members of both groups developed colds at the same rate. Since that first experiment, there have been similar experiments performed with a variety of different illnesses. All have yielded the same result: being cold does not make a person more likely to get sick. Of course, it does seem that people do get sick more often when the weather is cold. However, this is because there is some evidence that people do get sick more often in cold weather, but it has nothing to do with forgetting to bundle up when it is chilly. When it is cold outside, people tend to stay inside. With so many people gathered closely together indoors, germs are spread more easily. Germs are spread from person to person, regardless of how cold or warm their bodies are. What is a potential reason as to why the author opened the passage with a childhood reference and a question? To inform the reader of a common idea regarding illness, most often heard during childhood. To persuade the reader to think about the question and try to answer it before reading the passage. To grab the attention of the reader and introduce the question that will be answered in the passage. To entertain the reader with a funny anecdote one often hears throughout his or her childhood experience. None 245. Does Low Body Temperature Cause Illness?: As children, we are often told to dress warmly in the winter so we do not get sick. This is a common piece of advice, but is there any truth behind it? In fact, there is no scientific evidence to suggest that being cold can get you sick. Most illnesses are caused by viruses and bacteria. Illnesses like strep throat, influenza, and the common cold are only spread through contact with other infected people. How cold you are when you come into contact with the virus or bacteria has nothing to do with whether or not you will get sick. The effect of body temperature on contracting illness was tested on human beings in the 1950s. Researchers divided volunteers into two groups: half of them were kept in a warm room and the other half were kept in a cold room. Both groups were then exposed to rhinovirus–the virus responsible for the common cold. The researchers discovered that members of both groups developed colds at the same rate. Since that first experiment, there have been similar experiments performed with a variety of different illnesses. All have yielded the same result: being cold does not make a person more likely to get sick. Of course, it does seem that people do get sick more often when the weather is cold. However, this is because there is some evidence that people do get sick more often in cold weather, but it has nothing to do with forgetting to bundle up when it is chilly. When it is cold outside, people tend to stay inside. With so many people gathered closely together indoors, germs are spread more easily. Germs are spread from person to person, regardless of how cold or warm their bodies are. What is the author’s purpose in writing this passage? To inform readers regarding the inaccurate portrayal of information regarding the relationship between cold weather and getting sick. To inform readers as to why the common cold is not as dangerous as one may think. To inform the reader regarding experiments that have been done to debunk the theory that people are more likely to get sick because of colder temperatures. To entertain readers with anecdotes related to getting sick in the winter months. None 246. When Dinosaurs Coughed: Centuries of research and fossil evidence have allowed us to visualize various aspects of dinosaurs, ranging from how they looked to how they acted. Thanks to a recent study that analyzed fossil remains discovered in Montana, it is possible that dinosaurs may have even caught and dealt with the annoying symptoms of the common cold, just like humans do! During an excavation, paleontologists uncovered the remains of a diplodocid, a large herbivore with a long neck. Due to its size, this type of dinosaur breathed in air through sacs in its neck, which were directly connected to its respiratory system. The fossil remains of the dinosaur indicated that a pathogen had infected its lungs and respiratory system. Although researchers have not yet pinpointed the exact source of the infection, one hypothesis posits that it is the Aspergillus fungus, which infects reptiles and birds to this day. No matter the origin, the study shows that the illness caused symptoms similar to a cough and increased body temperature, which are indicative of the common cold. What is the best summary of the passage? Although the reason is unknown, a discovery has shown that at least one Diplodocid dinosaur was infected by a pathogen that attacked its respiratory system, producing symptoms similar to the common cold. A research study hints at the fact that a pathogen, perhaps stemming from the Aspergillus fungus, infected dinosaurs and may have ultimately been responsible for certain illnesses or early deaths. Fossil evidence uncovered in Montana shows that the Aspergillus fungus may have been present on Earth before Homo sapiens even appeared, and could have been the cause of a respiratory illness infecting certain dinosaurs. Thanks to evidence from a recent excavation in Montana, researchers have found that a herbivore dinosaur with a long neck suffered from a respiratory illness, likely due to how it inhaled air through sacs on its neck. None 247. Understanding Rare Diseases: Although rare diseases are prevalent throughout the global community, they are not given enough attention by the healthcare community. Currently, there are approximately seven thousand rare diseases affecting people all over the world, and they affect nearly thirty million Americans alone. Depending on where someone lives, the definition of a rare disease changes drastically. In the United States, for example, a disease is considered rare if it affects fewer than 200,000 people. In the European Union, however, a disease is only defined as rare if it affects fewer than one in two thousand people. The differences in the mere definition of what a rare disease is can lead to difficulties in diagnoses. Diagnosing a rare disease with certainty can be problematic due to the scarcity of information available as well as a lack of consensus within the healthcare community. Rather than dismissing a patient’s concerns because of a lack of evidence, primary care physicians should be a source of support and help alleviate their patients’ worries over healthcare issues the best they can. It is imperative that general practitioners are well-versed in the area of rare diseases so that they can help affected patients find answers and support. What is the best summary of the passage? Diagnosing a rare disease with certainty can be problematic due to the scarcity of information available as well as a lack of consensus within the healthcare community. The differences in the mere definition of what a rare disease is can lead to difficulties in diagnoses. Rather than dismissing a patient’s concerns because of a lack of evidence, primary care physicians should be a source of support and help alleviate their patients’ worries over healthcare issues the best they can. Currently, there are approximately seven thousand rare diseases affecting people all over the world, and they affect nearly thirty million Americans alone. None 248. What is the meaning of “lens”? Any bulge or swelling of an anatomical structure or part A system of graphic symbols with a specialized use, other than ordinary writing A swollen, inflamed area in bodily tissues in which pus gathers A piece of glass with curved sides used for concentrating or dispersing light rays None 249. Fill the blank with the correct word. Keeping your camera ________ clean is crucial for taking good photos; even the tiniest smudge can ruin the quality of your pictures. Plethora Panacea Lens Vista None 250. What is the meaning of “assistance”? The number or amount of a group, or a part of something compared to the whole Lack of interest in someone or something The ability to produce intended results The action of helping someone by sharing work None 251. What is the meaning of “vertigo”? Pieces of paper containing official information A sensation of whirling and loss of balance A good reason or explanation for something The cutting off of a part of the body None 252. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? My mother, who suffers from vertigo, sometimes has to spend the day lying on her bed to reduce the spinning feeling. The process of removing one or all of the organs from the inside of a body The quality of having a friendly and cheerful manner A sensation of whirling and loss of balance A swollen, inflamed area in bodily tissues, in which pus gathers None 253. What is the meaning of “tractable”? Not able or not likely to cause harm Easily dealt with, controlled, or persuaded Having or expressing a lively, cheerful, and self-confident manner Looking bright and attractive but in fact cheap and of low quality None 254. Which of the following words has a similar meaning to “relocate”? Evict Import Export Immigrate None 255. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? Germany’s new immigration programs apply to eligible temporary residents who want to immigrate to any German province or territory. To leave a country permanently and go to live in another one To come to live permanently in a country that is not your own To request something, usually officially, especially in writing or by sending in a form To encourage people to like, buy, use, do, or support something None 256. What is the meaning of “emigrate”? To send goods to another country for sale To come to live permanently in a country that is not your own To leave a country permanently and go to live in another one To request something, usually officially, especially in writing or by sending in a form None 257. What is the meaning of “arose”? Inferred Emerged Faltered Implied None 258. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? During my trip to Germany, many occasions arose when I could use my knowledge of French. Emerged Augmented Engendered Ostracized None 259. What is the meaning of “emetic”? Something that causes an increase in the production of urine A substance that helps a person excrete the contents of the bowels Something that causes vomit A medicine or chemical that can destroy harmful bacteria in the body or limit their growth None 260. What word has a similar meaning to “truthful and honest”? Apathetic Querulous Candid Secretive None 261. Which word in the sentence has a similar meaning to “truthful and honest”? I know working as an accountant can be tedious but, to be candid with you, I think quitting your job without a Plan B will have a pernicious effect on your finances. Accountant Tedious Pernicious Candid None 262. Which word has a similar meaning to “extremely stupid”? Indigent Asinine Endogenous Aggrieved None 263. Fill the blank in the following sentence. If pressing with a piece of cloth is not enough to _______ the wound, you can make a tourniquet by wrapping a strip of cloth around the limb, two inches above the wound. Augment Infer Staunch Lessen None 264. What is the meaning of “to ostracize”? To become less strong To become part of or form a close relationship with a group or organization To stop something from being active, either temporarily or permanently To exclude from a society or group None 265. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? Her coworkers ostracized her after she snitched on them. To accept behaviour and beliefs that are different from your own, although you might not agree with or approve of them To criticize something or someone strongly, usually for moral reasons To exclude from a society or group To behave in a way which shows that you consider yourself to be better or more intelligent than other people None 266. Which word has a similar meaning to “aggrieved; indignant”? Garrulous Resentful Indigent Taciturn None 267. Fill the blank with the correct word. Laurence __________ the answer to his question by looking at his father’s bitter face. Inferred Clamored Augmented Minimized None 268. What is the meaning of “latter”? Positioned at or towards the back Positioned at or towards the front Existing or happening before someone or something Occurring or situated nearer to the end of something than to its beginning None 269. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? You don’t learn the murderer’s identity until the latter part of the novel. Coming or happening after something else in order or time Related to the basic elements of a subject Occurring or situated nearer to the end of something than to its beginning Of or at the beginning None 270. Which word has a similar meaning to “basic; essential”? Enervating Inviolable Fundamental Perpetual None 271. Fill the blank with the correct word. I’m aware I’m using an enormous amount of __________ in describing a restaurant, but in this case, it is well justified: I wish I could eat there every day. Hyperbole Simile Ballad Oxymoron None 272. What is the meaning of “rigorous”? Lacking enthusiasm and effort Cruel and criticizing in a humorous way Extremely thorough and careful Illegal or disapproved of by society None 273. Fill the blank with the correct word. Beware, the selection process is remarkably __________, and most candidates are rejected at the very beginning. Fatal Aggrieved Garrulous Rigorous None 274. What is the meaning of “burgeoning”? Likely to result in success, or showing signs of success Slow and awkward because of being very heavy or large Growing or developing quickly Having or showing extreme greed for wealth or material gain None 275. Fill the blank with the correct word. To see this psychiatrist, you need a _________ from a psychologist. Referral Treatment Probability Prescription None 276. What word has a similar meaning to “active; vital”? Parsimonious Gradual Diluted Dynamic None 277. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? She was the young and dynamic version of her predecessor. A person who knows or sees everything Having a very bright or beautiful appearance Someone who has a lot of ideas and enthusiasm Based on clear thought and reason None 278. What word has a similar meaning to “to own”? Arose Possess Enhance Augment None 279. What word meaning “a disease of the blood that causes the skin and the white part of the eyes to turn yellow” fits best in the following sentence? _____________ is prevalent in newborns because their undeveloped livers are not able to remove bilirubin efficiently. Amputation Hepatitis Jaundice Constipation None 280. Which word has a similar meaning to “to move from one place to another”? Repudiate Migrate Clamor Smuggle None 281. What is the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence? Honey bees neither migrate nor hibernate during the winter: you don’t see them around because they spend the coldest months in the hive working to keep the queen warm. To make a continuous, low sound To move from one country or region to another, often temporarily To reproduce sexually To spend the winter sleeping None 282. What is the meaning of “ritual”? Something that you accept as true without question or proof The act of making or doing something with whatever is available at the time. An understanding thought, or picture in your mind a set of fixed actions and sometimes words performed regularly, especially as part of a ceremony None 283. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The nurse initiated the new diet regiment for the patient. analyzed started planned cancelled None 284. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. Manifestations of the infection include fever and gastrointestinal inflammation. liver kidney stomach muscle None 285. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. Nurses are required to wear impervious gloves when handling bodily fluids to prevent transmission of infection. Sanitary Recyclable Impenetrable Insoluble None 286. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The laceration wasn′t severe and the nurse cleaned and stitched it within minutes. a purplish mark on the skin rapid loss of blood cut; tear superficial wound None 287. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The nurse checked the patient’s gauze to make sure that it was intact. dry tight latent whole None 288. Select the word that means “contamination or invasion of body tissue by pathogenic organisms”. The pathology report indicated that infection was the cause of the patient’s labile symptoms. infection pathology symptoms labile None 289. Which word can be defined as “tired; slow; lazy”? neophyte agile languid dissonant None 290. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The patient was happy to hear that the virus was latent. inactive cured untransmittable not fatal None 291. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The nurse entered the room to conduct an initial examination of the patient. final complete first written None 292. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The nurse noticed that the joints in the patient’s fingers were inflamed. swollen jammed broken blanched None 293. Select the word that means “feeling anger because of something unjust”. This hospital is seriously understaffed. It′s indignant to see ailing patients waiting for hours to be seen by an exhausted medical professional. understaffed indignant exhausted ailing None 294. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The patient implied she wouldn′t feel as comfortable with a male gynecologist. to state or announce something publicly to very quietly relay information to someone else to suggest without explicitly stating to raise your voice and shout None 295. Which word can be defined as “a feeling of general discomfort”? While taking these pills, patients may experience migraines, nausea, loss of appetite, and malaise. loss of appetite nausea migraines malaise None 296. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. The nurse practitioner instructed the patient to ingest three doses of medication daily. swallow inject prescribe insufflate None 297. Select the meaning of the underlined word in the sentence. Her fortitude definitely helped her recover from severe trauma. strength and endurance during a difficult time educated guess or theory doing what is right strict isolation None 1 out of 297 Time is Up! Time's upTime is Up!
