TEAS Physics: Key Concepts for Exam Success

ATI TEAS 7

Physics

1. Which phenomenon describes the bending of light as it travels from one medium to another with differing densities?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Refraction. Refraction is the phenomenon that describes the bending of light as it travels from one medium to another with differing densities. When light passes from one medium to another, such as from air to water, its speed changes, causing it to bend. This bending of light is what we observe when a pencil appears bent in a glass of water. Reflection, on the other hand, is the bouncing back of light when it hits a surface. Diffraction refers to the bending of light around obstacles, and dispersion is the separation of light into its different colors. Therefore, in this case, refraction is the most appropriate term to describe the bending of light as it moves between media with different densities.

2. Nuclear fission is a process characterized by:

A. A heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and releasing energy
B. The fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element
C. A lighter element emitting an alpha particle through radioactive decay
D. An electron being absorbed by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nuclear fission is a process characterized by a heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and splitting into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation. This differs from nuclear fusion, which involves the merging of two lighter nuclei to form a heavier element. The emission of an alpha particle by a lighter element is a form of radioactive decay, not fission. Absorption of an electron by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray is not representative of fission reactions. Therefore, option A correctly describes the process of nuclear fission.

3. What is the medical term for a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

A. Nephritis
B. Cystitis
C. Urethritis
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' A urinary tract infection (UTI) can affect different parts of the urinary system. Nephritis refers to inflammation of the kidneys, cystitis refers to inflammation of the bladder, and urethritis refers to inflammation of the urethra. Therefore, all of these terms can be used to describe a UTI depending on which part of the urinary tract is affected. It's important to differentiate between these terms to accurately diagnose and treat UTIs.

4. What is the process of breaking down proteins into amino acids called?

A. Proteolysis
B. Lipolysis
C. Carbohydrate catabolism
D. Nucleic acid catabolism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Proteolysis is the process of breaking down proteins into amino acids. Lipolysis is the breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol, not proteins. Carbohydrate catabolism involves the breakdown of carbohydrates into glucose for energy production. Nucleic acid catabolism is the breakdown of nucleic acids into nucleotides. In this context, the specific process of breaking down proteins into amino acids is best described by proteolysis.

5. The stomach produces a strong acid to help break down food. What is the name of this acid?

A. Hydrochloric acid
B. Lactic acid
C. Bile
D. Fatty acid

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hydrochloric acid. The stomach produces hydrochloric acid to help break down food by lowering the pH level in the stomach, creating an acidic environment that aids in the digestion of proteins and other nutrients. Lactic acid is produced in muscles during exercise and is not related to stomach digestion. Bile is produced by the liver and helps in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Fatty acids are a type of molecule that is a component of fats, not the acid produced by the stomach for digestion.