TEAS 7 Biology: Master Key Concepts

ATI TEAS 7

Biology

1. The study of the geographical distribution of organisms and the factors that influence it is known as:

A. Paleontology (the study of fossils)
B. Taxonomy (the classification of organisms)
C. Biogeography
D. Population genetics

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: Biogeography is the study of the geographical distribution of organisms and the factors that influence their distribution patterns. This field of study examines how and why species are distributed where they are, considering factors such as historical events, ecological interactions, and physical geography. Paleontology (option A) is the study of fossils and the history of life on Earth, focusing on extinct organisms. Taxonomy (option B) is the science of classifying and naming organisms based on their characteristics. Population genetics (option D) is the study of genetic variation and evolutionary processes within populations of organisms. In this context, biogeography is the most appropriate choice as it specifically deals with the distribution of organisms in space and time.

2. Antigenic variation, a common strategy used by some viruses, allows them to:

A. Produce toxins
B. Evade the immune system
C. Survive outside a host
D. Replicate rapidly

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Antigenic variation is a strategy used by some viruses to evade the host's immune response. By constantly changing their surface antigens, viruses can avoid recognition and destruction by the immune system. This allows the virus to persist in the host and continue replicating, leading to prolonged infection and potential transmission to other hosts. Antigenic variation does not directly involve the production of toxins, survival outside a host, or rapid replication, making options A, C, and D incorrect in this context.

3. What is the process by which decomposers break down organic matter?

A. Photosynthesis
B. Bioremediation
C. Decomposition
D. Nitrification

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy to produce glucose from carbon dioxide and water. This process is not related to the breakdown of organic matter by decomposers. B) Bioremediation is the use of living organisms to clean up contaminated environments. While it involves the use of microorganisms to break down pollutants, it is not specifically focused on breaking down organic matter. C) Decomposition is the process by which decomposers such as bacteria, fungi, and other organisms break down organic matter into simpler substances. This process is essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems. D) Nitrification is the biological oxidation of ammonia or ammonium to nitrite followed by the oxidation of nitrite to nitrate by nitrifying bacteria. This process is part of the nitrogen cycle and is not directly related to the breakdown of organic matter.

4. A solution is 60% alcohol. If 200ml of the solution are used, how much pure alcohol is present?

A. 100ml
B. 120ml
C. 140ml
D. 160ml

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Multiply the total solution volume (200ml) by the alcohol percentage (60%)

5. A closed system in ecology is one that:

A. Exchanges energy but not matter
B. Exchanges both energy and matter
C. Exchanges neither energy nor matter
D. Recycles nutrients efficiently

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: In ecology, a closed system is one that does not exchange matter with its surroundings but can exchange energy. This means that while energy can enter or leave the system, the amount of matter within the system remains constant. This definition aligns with option A, making it the correct answer. Options B and C are incorrect because a closed system does not exchange matter, and option D is not directly related to the definition of a closed system in ecology.