TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. What does the term 'solute' refer to in a solution?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In a solution, the term 'solute' specifically refers to the substance that dissolves in the solvent to create a solution. The solute is typically present in a smaller amount compared to the solvent. Option B correctly identifies the solute as the substance that undergoes dissolution in the solvent, making it the correct choice. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is actually describing the solvent, which is the substance present in the largest amount in a solution. Choice C refers to the solvent, not the solute. Choice D is unrelated to the term 'solute' as it describes the colligative property of freezing point depression, not the solute itself.

2. What is the main function of vacuoles in plant cells?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Vacuoles in plant cells primarily function as storage organelles. They store water, enzymes, pigments, and waste products, helping to maintain turgor pressure within the cell. This turgor pressure provides structural support for the plant cell. While vacuoles can also participate in transporting substances within the cell, their main role is storage. The synthesis of proteins and lipids is mainly handled by other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Choice A is incorrect because while vacuoles indirectly contribute to structural support by maintaining turgor pressure, their primary function is storage. Choice B is incorrect as vacuoles are not primarily responsible for transporting substances in and out of the cell. Choice C is incorrect as vacuoles do not synthesize proteins and lipids; this function is carried out by other organelles.

3. Which of the following factors would NOT affect the solubility of a solid solute in a liquid solvent?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pressure does not typically affect the solubility of a solid solute in a liquid solvent. Solubility is primarily influenced by factors such as temperature, particle size, and the nature of the solute and solvent. Increasing pressure generally has a minimal effect on the solubility of solids in liquids. The impact of pressure on solubility is more significant for gases in liquids rather than solids in liquids. Therefore, option B is the correct answer. Options A, C, and D directly impact the solubility of a solid solute in a liquid solvent. Temperature affects the solubility as it changes the kinetic energy of particles, particle size can impact the surface area available for interaction between solute and solvent, and the nature of the solute and solvent influences their intermolecular interactions and compatibility.

4. Which of the following is an example of a nonpolar solvent?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: - Water (option A) is a polar solvent due to its uneven distribution of charge, with the oxygen atom being partially negative and the hydrogen atoms being partially positive. - Ethanol (option B) is a nonpolar solvent because it has a symmetrical molecular structure that does not result in significant charge separation. - Acetone (option C) is a polar solvent as it contains a carbonyl group that results in a partial negative charge on the oxygen atom. - Hydrochloric acid (option D) is a polar solvent due to the presence of the highly electronegative chlorine atom, which results in a partial negative charge.

5. What is the process of cells dividing to produce new cells called?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cell division is the correct answer. It is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells, enabling growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms. This process ensures that genetic material is accurately passed on to the new cells. Cell differentiation refers to the specialization of cells to perform specific functions, while cell growth is the increase in size or mass of a cell. Cell regeneration involves replacing damaged or lost cells with new ones, where cell division plays a role but is not the primary process of generating new cells. Therefore, in the context of cells producing new cells, cell division is the accurate term.

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