What was the author's primary purpose for writing this essay?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing this essay is to inform the readers about the stages of the water cycle. The essay explains how water moves through the cycle, including processes like precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice A is correct because the focus is on educating readers about the water cycle, not just explaining how rain is formed (Choice B), persuading readers to preserve water (Choice C), or discussing water's importance in life (Choice D). The detailed explanation of the water cycle provided in the extract supports the correct answer.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Statement B, 'Harsh voice qualities usually come from too much tension in the throat and jaw,' presents a fact rather than an opinion. This statement provides a clear and objective observation about the potential cause of harsh voice qualities, based on physical tension in specific areas of the body, which can be objectively measured and identified. Choice A is an opinion as it states 'One of the worst voice qualities is harshness' without providing a verifiable basis. Choice C lists subjective descriptors of an unpleasant voice without stating a definite cause. Choice D introduces a gender-based assertion about voice quality, making it an opinion rather than a factual observation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In the culture of Siam, white elephants were highly regarded as sacred and receiving one as a gift from the king was considered an honor. It was a symbol of prestige and status to receive the king's gift of a white elephant. Option A is incorrect as white elephants were not used for meat supply. Option B is also incorrect as white elephants were not prized for their work but rather for their symbolic value. Option D is partially correct but does not capture the full significance of white elephants in Siam.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The information presented in the article is unbiased in its approach. While the article highlights the potential issues related to overeating and alcohol abuse, it does not explicitly advocate against eating and drinking, drinking alcohol, or eating rich foods. The primary focus is on the negative consequences of overeating and alcohol abuse, making choice D, 'Unbiased and informative,' the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are not supported by the content of the article; it merely discusses the risks associated with overeating and alcohol abuse without taking a stand against them.

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: D

Rationale: The word 'impoverished' typically refers to a state of extreme poverty or being financially ruined. In the context of the first paragraph, where it is used to describe the condition of a certain group of people, it indicates that they are lacking in financial resources or are in a state of deprivation. Choice A 'Honored' is incorrect as it has a positive connotation opposite to the negative meaning of 'impoverished.' Choice B 'Nobility' is incorrect as it refers to a high social rank or class, which is unrelated to the financial state implied by 'impoverished.' Choice C 'Rich' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'impoverished,' denoting wealth and abundance, not financial weakness.

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: C

Rationale: The roadway was dangerous to build because the men involved in the construction were at risk of falling to their deaths. The excerpt mentions that the construction of the roadway was the most dangerous and treacherous part of the entire task, indicating a high risk of falling due to the height and precarious nature of the construction site. Choice A is incorrect because the danger was due to the physical risks of falling and not due to a lack of materials. Choice B is incorrect as passing cars were not the primary danger during the construction of the roadway. Choice D is incorrect since there is no mention of workers being attacked by animals during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The passage does not explicitly state the author's stance on alcohol consumption or dieting. However, the description of playing Bridge emphasizes qualities like time, effort, and attention to become proficient. This suggests that the author likely favors moderation and balance in one's approach to activities, rather than extremes like excessive drinking or strict dieting. Choice A is incorrect because the author does not express opposition to drinking alcohol. Choice B is incorrect as there is no indication of the author favoring a strict diet. Choice C is incorrect as there is no direct mention of opposing regulation of personal habits in the passage.