TEAS 7 Biology: Master Key Concepts

ATI TEAS 7

Biology

1. What is the difference between DNA and RNA?

A. Both are double-stranded.
B. DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, while RNA contains ribose sugar.
C. RNA contains the nitrogenous base uracil, while DNA contains thymine.
D. Both are identical molecules.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Incorrect. DNA is double-stranded, but RNA is typically single-stranded. B) Correct. DNA contains deoxyribose sugar, which lacks an oxygen atom on the 2' carbon of the sugar ring, while RNA contains ribose sugar, which has an additional hydroxyl group on the 2' carbon. C) Incorrect. RNA contains the nitrogenous base uracil, while DNA contains thymine. D) Incorrect. DNA and RNA have distinct structures and functions, so they are not identical molecules.

2. The "master gland" of the endocrine system, located at the base of the brain, secretes various hormones that control other glands is the:

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" because it plays a crucial role in regulating other endocrine glands in the body. It is located at the base of the brain and secretes various hormones that control functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response. The thyroid gland (A) regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland (C) produces hormones involved in stress response, and the pancreas (D) is primarily responsible for regulating blood sugar levels through insulin production, but they do not serve as the master gland of the endocrine system.

3. A scientific theory is:

A. A personal belief or hunch about how something works.
B. A well-substantiated explanation based on evidence and repeated testing.
C. A single experiment's findings not yet confirmed by others.
D. A fixed and unchanging dogma beyond questioning.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Theories in science are constantly evolving and open to revision as new data emerges, unlike personal beliefs or fixed dogmas.

4. The primary function of the placenta during pregnancy is to:

A. Produce insulin
B. Facilitate gas exchange between mother and fetus
C. Excrete waste products from the fetus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The placenta serves multiple crucial functions during pregnancy. It facilitates gas exchange between the mother and fetus, ensuring the transfer of oxygen and nutrients while removing carbon dioxide and waste products. Additionally, the placenta produces hormones like insulin that help regulate the mother's metabolism and support the development of the fetus. Therefore, the placenta plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy environment for the growing fetus by providing essential nutrients, removing waste, and regulating hormonal balance.

5. The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) targets and destroys which type of immune cell?

A. Neutrophils
B. Macrophages
C. Helper T cells
D. Memory B cells

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Helper T cells. HIV targets and destroys Helper T cells, which are a crucial component of the immune system responsible for coordinating the immune response. Neutrophils and macrophages are also important immune cells, but they are not the primary target of HIV. Memory B cells are responsible for mounting a rapid response upon re-exposure to a pathogen but are not the main target of HIV. Thus, HIV primarily affects Helper T cells, leading to the weakening of the immune system and the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).