TEAS 7 Biology: Master Key Concepts

ATI TEAS 7

Biology

1. The largest level of ecological organization is a:

A. Population
B. Community
C. Ecosystem
D. Biome

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Population: A population consists of individuals of the same species living in the same area. It is a smaller level of ecological organization compared to a biome. B) Community: A community consists of populations of different species living and interacting in the same area. It is a larger level of organization than a population but smaller than an ecosystem or biome. C) Ecosystem: An ecosystem includes all living organisms (biotic factors) and their physical environment (abiotic factors) interacting in a particular area. It is a larger level of organization than a community but smaller than a biome. D) Biome: A biome is the largest level of ecological organization and encompasses a large geographic area characterized by a specific climate, vegetation, and animal life. Biomes can be found on multiple continents and are defined by similar abiotic and biotic factors.

2. The energy released during a chemical reaction is called:

A. Kinetic energy
B. Potential energy
C. Heat energy
D. Exothermic energy

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Exothermic means "outward heat," indicating energy is released during the reaction.

3. The energy released in nuclear fusion originates from:

A. The fission of heavy nuclei
B. The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei
C. Electronic transitions within atoms
D. Matter-antimatter annihilation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei.' Nuclear fusion is the process where light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the form of binding energy. This energy comes from the conversion of mass into energy as per Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2. In contrast, option A refers to nuclear fission, where heavy nuclei split into lighter nuclei, releasing energy. Option C is related to atomic energy levels, and option D involves the complete conversion of matter into energy, not specific to nuclear fusion. Therefore, the energy released in nuclear fusion originates from the binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei.

4. Which of the following is the main function of the pancreas?

A. To store food and break it down into smaller pieces
B. To absorb nutrients into the bloodstream
C. To produce enzymes that help digest food
D. To regulate blood sugar levels

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: The pancreas is a vital organ in the digestive system that produces digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases. These enzymes are released into the small intestine to help break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins in food, aiding in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Options A and B are incorrect because the pancreas is not involved in storing or absorbing nutrients. Option D is partially correct as the pancreas also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels by producing insulin and glucagon, but its primary function is to produce digestive enzymes.

5. The ability of optical fibers to transmit light signals around bends is primarily due to:

A. Reflection
B. Refraction
C. Diffraction
D. Polarization

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Refraction. Optical fibers transmit light signals around bends primarily through the process of refraction. Refraction occurs when light passes from one medium to another, causing it to change direction. In optical fibers, the core material has a higher refractive index than the cladding, which causes light to be reflected internally along the fiber. This phenomenon allows light signals to travel through the fiber even around bends without significant loss. Reflection (Option A) involves light bouncing off a surface, which is not the main mechanism in optical fibers. Diffraction (Option C) refers to the bending of light waves around obstacles and is not the main reason for light transmission in optical fibers. Polarization (Option D) relates to the orientation of light waves, which is not the primary factor enabling light transmission around bends in optical fibers.