TEAS 7 Biology: Master Key Concepts

ATI TEAS 7

Biology

1. Which of the following is the primary function of the cell membrane?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, plays a crucial role in regulating the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It is selectively permeable, meaning it allows certain molecules to pass through while blocking others. This function is essential for maintaining the internal environment of the cell and ensuring that necessary nutrients can enter the cell while waste products and other substances can exit. While the cell membrane does provide some structural support for the cell, its primary function is to control the transport of substances. The synthesis of proteins and lipids primarily occurs in other cellular organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, while storing genetic material is the function of the nucleus.

2. What happens during a physical change in matter?

A. A new substance with different properties is formed
B. The chemical composition of the substance changes
C. The original substance can be recovered by physical means
D. Energy is either released or absorbed

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During a physical change in matter, the original substance undergoes a change in its physical state or appearance without any change in its chemical composition. This means that the original substance can be recovered by physical means, such as melting, freezing, boiling, or condensing. No new substance is formed (option A), the chemical composition remains the same (option B), and energy changes can occur but are not a defining characteristic of a physical change (option D).

3. In a neutral atom, the number of electrons:

A. Must be equal to the number of protons.
B. Must be less than the number of protons.
C. Must be greater than the number of neutrons.
D. Can vary depending on the atom's temperature.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Must be equal to the number of protons - For electrical neutrality, the positive charge of protons must be balanced by the negative charge of an equal number of electrons.

4. What is the term for the involuntary muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract?

A. Segmentation
B. Peristalsis
C. Chyme
D. Emulsification

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Peristalsis. Peristalsis is the term used to describe the involuntary muscle contractions that help move food through the digestive tract. These rhythmic contractions occur in the smooth muscles of the digestive system and help propel food and other substances like chyme through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Segmentation, choice A, refers to the mixing movements in the intestines that aid in digestion but do not move food along the tract. Chyme, choice C, is the semi-fluid mass of partially digested food that moves from the stomach to the small intestine. Emulsification, choice D, is the process of breaking down fats into smaller droplets to aid in digestion, but it is not directly related to the movement of food through the digestive tract.

5. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in the:

A. Center of long bones
B. Joints between bones
C. Muscle tissue
D. Walls of blood vessels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that is found in the joints between bones. It is a strong yet flexible tissue that cushions and supports the joints, allowing for smooth movement and reducing friction between bones. Cartilage is not typically found in the center of long bones, muscle tissue, or walls of blood vessels. Therefore, the correct answer is B: 'Joints between bones.'