What is the meaning of the word 'deceptive' as it is used in the fifth paragraph?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'deceptive' means misleading. The passage discusses how the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates product advertising to ensure that all information is truthful and not misleading. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: misleading.' Choice B, 'malicious,' is incorrect as it implies harmful intent, which is not necessarily conveyed by the term 'deceptive' in this context. Choice C, 'illegal,' is incorrect because 'deceptive' does not solely refer to something being against the law, but rather to misleading information. Choice D, 'irritating,' is also incorrect as it does not capture the essence of 'deceptive' as used in the passage.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the context provided, 'pathogens' refers to disease-causing substances such as bacteria and viruses. These microorganisms can contaminate food and lead to foodborne illnesses. Choice A ('diseases') is incorrect as pathogens themselves cause diseases but are not diseases. Choice B ('vaccines') is incorrect as vaccines are used to prevent diseases caused by pathogens. Choice D ('foods') is incorrect as pathogens are not foods, but rather contaminants that can be found in food.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'sterile' means free of bacteria. The text mentions that raw foods are not sterile and can be a common source of foodborne illnesses due to contamination with harmful bacteria. 'Healthy' (choice B) is incorrect as the term 'sterile' specifically refers to the absence of bacteria, not overall health. 'Delicious' (choice C) is irrelevant to the context of bacteria contamination. 'Impotent' (choice D) is also incorrect as it does not relate to the concept of being free from bacteria.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, 'composed' means to consist of. The paragraph explains that a drop of water is composed of an oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Choice B, 'To be uniquely discovered,' is incorrect as it does not relate to the composition of a drop of water. Choice C, 'To be set apart,' and Choice D, 'To be surprised,' are also incorrect as they do not convey the meaning of 'composed' as it is used in this paragraph.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The author's primary purpose for writing the essay is to inform the reader about the stages of the water cycle. The essay discusses the various stages of the water cycle, including precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the essay focuses on explaining the water cycle stages rather than persuading the reader to conserve water, discussing the effectiveness of runoff, or analyzing different types of runoff.