Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is NOT a source of genetic variation in a population?

• A. Mutations in genes
• B. Genetic drift (random fluctuations in allele frequencies)
• C. Gene flow (movement of genes between populations)
• D. Blending inheritance (traits of parents are averaged in offspring)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Mutations in genes: Mutations are changes in the DNA sequence that can introduce new alleles into a population, leading to genetic variation. B) Genetic drift (random fluctuations in allele frequencies): Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies in a population, which can lead to genetic variation through chance events. C) Gene flow (movement of genes between populations): Gene flow occurs when individuals move between populations, bringing new alleles with them and increasing genetic variation within populations. D) Blending inheritance (traits of parents are averaged in offspring): Blending inheritance was a historical theory that suggested offspring inherit a blend of traits from their parents, leading to a reduction in genetic variation over time. However, this concept has been disproven by the understanding of Mendelian genetics, where traits are inherited independently and do not blend together. Therefore, blending inheritance does not contribute

2. What is the role of transfer RNA (tRNA) in protein synthesis?

• A. Transcribes DNA into mRNA
• B. Decodes the genetic code on mRNA
• C. Carries specific amino acids to the ribosomes bas(a) Carries amino acids to the ribosomes: This is the function of transfer RNA (tRNA), not ribosomal RNA. (b) Reads the genetic code on mRNA: This is the function of the ribosomes as a whole, not just the ribosomal RNA. (d) Controls the rate of protein synthesis: This is a more complex process involving various factors, not solely ribosomal RNA. ? ed on the mRNA
• D. Modifies the structure of proteins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Transcribes DNA into mRNA: This is the function of RNA polymerase, not transfer RNA (tRNA). tRNA is involved in protein synthesis, not transcription. B) Decodes the genetic code on mRNA: This is the function of tRNA during translation. tRNA molecules carry specific amino acids and recognize the codons on mRNA, ensuring the correct amino acid is added to the growing polypeptide chain. C) Carries specific amino acids to the ribosomes: This is the primary role of tRNA in protein synthesis. Each tRNA molecule is specific for a particular amino acid and carries it to the ribosome, where it is added to the growing protein chain. D) Modifies the structure of proteins: This is not a function of tRNA. Protein modification can occur after translation is complete and involves other cellular processes and molecules.

3. Regular exercise is beneficial for the muscular system by:

• A. Decreasing muscle mass
• B. Improving muscle strength and endurance
• C. Making muscles less flexible
• D. Increasing the risk of muscle tears

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Improving muscle strength and endurance.' Regular exercise is beneficial for the muscular system as it helps to strengthen muscles and increase endurance. By engaging in consistent physical activity, muscles adapt and grow stronger, which can enhance overall physical performance and reduce the risk of injury. Exercise also improves blood flow to the muscles, aiding in their recovery and growth. It does not decrease muscle mass (A), make muscles less flexible (C), or increase the risk of muscle tears (D), as long as proper form and gradual progression are followed.

4. The tiny contractile units within muscle cells are called:

• A. Myocytes
• B. Myofibrils
• C. Sarcomeres
• D. Tendons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sarcomeres. Sarcomeres are the basic contractile units within muscle cells. They are made up of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins, which slide past each other during muscle contraction, resulting in muscle movement. Myocytes (A) are muscle cells, myofibrils (B) are cylindrical structures within muscle fibers composed of sarcomeres, and tendons (D) are tough bands of connective tissue that connect muscle to bone. Therefore, sarcomeres are specifically responsible for muscle contraction within muscle cells.

5. What is the process of converting DNA into a protein called?

• A. Transcription
• B. Translation
• C. Replication
• D. Mutation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Transcription is the process of converting DNA into a molecule called messenger RNA (mRNA). This mRNA molecule carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes, where it is used to make proteins.

6. Muscles that work together to produce a specific movement are called

• A. Antagonistic muscles
• B. Agonistic muscles
• C. Synergistic muscles
• D. Flexors and extensors

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Synergistic muscles are the correct answer because they are muscles that work together to produce a specific movement. These muscles coordinate their actions to achieve a common goal, such as bending the elbow or extending the knee. Antagonistic muscles work in opposition to each other, while agonistic muscles are the primary movers in a particular movement. Flexors and extensors refer to specific muscle groups that perform opposing actions, rather than working together synergistically. Understanding the concept of synergistic muscles is essential in biomechanics and exercise science.

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