Reading Comprehension Related

Review Reading Comprehension related questions and content

Cystic fibrosis is a disease that is passed down through families. It is caused by a defective gene
that makes the body produce abnormally thick and sticky fluid, called mucus. This mucus builds
up in the breathing passages of the lungs and in the pancreas. The buildup of mucus results in
life-threatening lung infections and serious digestion problems. The disease may also affect the
sweat glands and a man's reproductive system. Millions of Americans carry a CF gene, but do
not have symptoms. This is because a person with CF must inherit two defective genes, one from
each parent. About 1 in 29 Caucasian Americans have the CF gene. It is more common among
those of northern or central European descent. Most children with CF are diagnosed by age 2.
For a small number, the disease is not detected until age 18 or older. These children often have a
milder form of the disease.

In context, the word 'defective' in the first sentence of the passage means which of the following?

  • A. Unusual
  • B. Remarkable
  • C. Remarkable
  • D. Faulty
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Faulty.' In the context of the passage, 'defective' describes a gene that is not functioning correctly, leading to the production of abnormally thick and sticky fluid. The word 'defective' implies that the gene is flawed, imperfect, or faulty, which aligns with the definition of 'Faulty.' Choices A and B, 'Unusual' and 'Remarkable,' do not accurately reflect the negative connotation associated with 'defective' in this context. Therefore, 'Faulty' is the most appropriate interpretation of 'defective' in this sentence.