HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology Practice Test 2024
1. What is the initial step in the metabolism of food to cellular energy?
- A. Citric Acid Cycle
- B. Glycolysis
- C. Electron Transport Chain
- D. Photosynthesis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Glycolysis. Glycolysis is the initial step in the metabolism of food to cellular energy. During glycolysis, glucose is broken down into pyruvate, generating ATP and NADH. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the Citric Acid Cycle and Electron Transport Chain occur later in cellular respiration, while Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.
2. What is the primary function of the endoplasmic reticulum in a cell?
- A. Energy production
- B. Protein synthesis
- C. Waste removal
- D. Transport of materials
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum's primary function is the transport of materials within the cell. It acts as a network of membranes to assist in the transportation of proteins and other substances throughout the cell. Choice A, 'Energy production,' is incorrect because the endoplasmic reticulum is not directly involved in energy production. Choice B, 'Protein synthesis,' is incorrect as protein synthesis mainly occurs in ribosomes, although the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in modifying and transporting proteins. Choice C, 'Waste removal,' is also incorrect as waste removal is primarily handled by other organelles like lysosomes and peroxisomes.
3. What organelle do plant cells have that functions as storage, waste disposal, and protection?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Mitochondria
- C. Vacuoles
- D. Ribosomes
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Correct! Plant cells have vacuoles that serve as storage centers, help in waste disposal by containing and isolating harmful materials, and contribute to protection by storing toxic substances. The other choices are incorrect because the nucleus contains genetic material, mitochondria are responsible for energy production, and ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis.
4. What is the composition of the plasma membrane?
- A. Proteins
- B. Lipids
- C. Carbohydrates
- D. Nucleotides
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The plasma membrane is composed of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. While proteins are an essential component of the plasma membrane, it is not the only constituent. Carbohydrates and lipids also play crucial roles in the structure and function of the plasma membrane. Nucleotides are not part of the primary structural components of the plasma membrane, making this choice incorrect.
5. Which organelle is involved in the synthesis of proteins?
- A. Endoplasmic Reticulum
- B. Ribosomes
- C. Lysosomes
- D. Vacuoles
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Ribosomes are the organelles involved in the synthesis of proteins. They are the cellular machinery responsible for translating mRNA into proteins, making them essential for cell function and structure. The other organelles listed, such as the Endoplasmic Reticulum, Lysosomes, and Vacuoles, have different functions unrelated to protein synthesis. The Endoplasmic Reticulum plays a role in protein processing and transport, Lysosomes are involved in digestion and waste removal, and Vacuoles are responsible for storage and maintaining cell turgor pressure.
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