The author's reason for writing this piece seems to be to

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The author likely wrote this piece to inform the reader because the content is focused on providing information about the Golden Gate Bridge's history, construction, and significance. The text presents facts and details without attempting to persuade or entertain. The main purpose appears to be sharing useful or educational information rather than teaching, persuading, or entertaining.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'They are examples of groundwater reservoirs.' The passage mentions that runoff collects in groundwater reservoirs, among other places. Ponds and lakes are typically reservoirs of groundwater, as stated in the passage. Choice B is incorrect because ponds and lakes are not directly mentioned as part of the evaporation process. Choice C is incorrect as ponds and lakes are not stated to be formed by runoff. Choice D is incorrect as ponds and lakes are not formed by condensation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The Golden Gate Bridge crosses the entrance to San Francisco Bay, spanning the Golden Gate Strait. It does not cross the Pacific Ocean, Marin Strait, or Indian Ocean directly. The iconic bridge connects the city of San Francisco to Marin County in California. The Pacific Ocean is a vast body of water beyond the Golden Gate entrance, and Marin Strait is not a recognized geographical location. The Indian Ocean is located on a different continent and is not related to the Golden Gate Bridge's location.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the provided extract, the term 'concomitant' is used to describe problems associated with alcohol abuse, such as the individual becoming alcoholic, contribution to highway deaths by drunken drivers, and spousal and child abuse. Therefore, in this context, 'concomitant' means accompanying, or going along with something else. The other choices of 'Quiet,' 'Frustrated,' and 'Prefer low-pitched tones' do not align with the meaning of 'concomitant' as used in the paragraph.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The author likely wrote this piece to inform the reader because the content is focused on providing information about the Golden Gate Bridge's history, construction, and significance. The text presents facts and details without attempting to persuade or entertain. The main purpose appears to be sharing useful or educational information rather than teaching, persuading, or entertaining.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The word 'embark' typically means to board a ship or begin a journey. In this context, it means to start or set out on a new undertaking or venture, often including the act of boarding a ship. In the provided passage about the Golden Gate Bridge, it is mentioned that builders, architects, and workers embarked on the challenge of building a bridge across the Golden Gate Strait, which refers to them starting this new undertaking. Therefore, the correct definition of 'embark' is D. Put or go on board a ship. The other choices are incorrect: A. Removing the covering from a tree is unrelated to the context of the passage. B. Speaking harshly to others and C. Entertaining the reader are also irrelevant to the meaning of 'embark' in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'That the highest card within the 'trump' suit always wins the trick.' The passage explicitly mentions that in the game of Bridge, if a player plays a card from the trump suit, it always wins the trick. This detail is clearly stated in the text, making it the correct choice. Choice B is incorrect as there is no mention of a pile of leftover cards in the passage. Choice C is incorrect as the passage does not state that a player loses their turn if they cannot follow suit; instead, they play any card. Choice D is incorrect as the passage states that the ace is high, not low.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The paragraph implies that overeating and alcohol abuse can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. It highlights the strain on the heart, risk of diabetes, and shortened lifespan due to overeating. It also mentions the negative consequences of alcohol abuse, such as alcoholism, drunk driving leading to accidents, and spousal/child abuse. While emotional eating is mentioned, the main focus is on the health risks of overeating and alcohol abuse. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it captures the essence of the paragraph's message.