Nursing Elites

1. What is a mutation?

• A. A change in the DNA sequence
• B. A type of protein
• C. A normal part of the DNA replication process
• D. A harmless variation in DNA

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence. Mutations can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These changes can result in alterations to the genetic information carried by an organism, which can have different effects ranging from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations are a fundamental aspect of genetic diversity and evolution. Options B, C, and D do not accurately describe what a mutation is.

2. The largest bone in the human body is the:

• A. Femur (thigh bone)
• B. Tibia (shin bone)
• C. Humerus (upper arm bone)
• D. Scapula (shoulder blade)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Femur (thigh bone). The femur is the longest and strongest bone in the human body, located in the thigh region. It plays a crucial role in supporting the body's weight and facilitating movement. The tibia (B) is commonly known as the shin bone and is located below the femur. The humerus (C) is the upper arm bone, and the scapula (D) is the shoulder blade. However, neither of these bones is the largest in the human body. Understanding the anatomy of the skeletal system is essential for identifying the largest bone in the body, which is the femur.

3. The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle that plays a crucial role in breathing. When it contracts, what happens?

• A. Air is expelled from the lungs.
• B. The lungs expand to allow air intake.
• C. The vocal cords vibrate to produce sound.
• D. The trachea narrows to control airflow.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle located beneath the lungs. When it contracts, it moves downward, creating more space in the chest cavity. This downward movement of the diaphragm allows the lungs to expand, which lowers the air pressure inside the lungs. As a result, air from the outside rushes in to equalize the pressure, leading to inhalation. Therefore, when the diaphragm contracts, it facilitates the intake of air into the lungs, making option B, 'The lungs expand to allow air intake,' the correct answer.

4. What is the term for the process of breaking a large molecule into smaller fragments by applying heat?

• A. Polymerization
• B. Hydrogenation
• C. Isomerization
• D. Pyrolysis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pyrolysis is the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller fragments by applying heat. The other choices involve different chemical processes.

5. What is the scientific name for the kneecap?

• A. Patella
• B. Femur
• C. Tibia
• D. Fibula

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The patella, commonly known as the kneecap, is a small, flat, triangular bone that sits at the front of the knee joint. It protects the joint from impact and helps to transmit force from the quadriceps muscle to the tibia (shinbone).

6. Peppered moths in England came in two color variations – light and dark. After the Industrial Revolution, the population shifted towards more dark moths. This is an example of:

• A. Artificial selection (humans breeding for desired traits)
• B. Natural selection acting on pre-existing variation
• C. Punctuated equilibrium (rapid bursts of evolution)
• D. Lamarckism (inheritance of acquired characteristics)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The phenomenon of peppered moths in England shifting towards more dark moths after the Industrial Revolution is a classic example of natural selection acting on pre-existing variation. Before the Industrial Revolution, light-colored moths were better camouflaged against lichen-covered tree trunks, which were common in the environment. However, with the increase in industrial pollution, the tree trunks became darker due to soot, making dark-colored moths better camouflaged and less likely to be eaten by predators. As a result, the population shifted towards more dark moths over time. This change in the moth population was driven by the selective pressure of predation, demonstrating the process of natural selection favoring individuals with traits that provide a survival advantage in a changing environment.

Similar Questions