TEAS Physics: Key Concepts for Exam Success

ATI TEAS 7

Physics

1. The defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of:

A. Neutrons in its nucleus
B. Electrons surrounding the nucleus
C. Protons in its nucleus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Protons in its nucleus.' An element is defined by the number of protons in its nucleus, known as the atomic number. This number determines the element's identity and its placement on the periodic table. Neutrons and electrons play important roles in an atom, but they do not define the element itself. Neutrons contribute to the atom's mass, while electrons are involved in chemical reactions and bonding. Therefore, the number of protons is the defining characteristic of an element.

2. The energy released in nuclear fusion originates from:

A. The fission of heavy nuclei
B. The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei
C. Electronic transitions within atoms
D. Matter-antimatter annihilation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei.' Nuclear fusion is the process where light nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the form of binding energy. This energy comes from the conversion of mass into energy as per Einstein's famous equation E=mc^2. In contrast, option A refers to nuclear fission, where heavy nuclei split into lighter nuclei, releasing energy. Option C is related to atomic energy levels, and option D involves the complete conversion of matter into energy, not specific to nuclear fusion. Therefore, the energy released in nuclear fusion originates from the binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei.

3. What are the key differences between cytokinesis in plant and animal cells?

A. Animal cells utilize an actomyosin ring for cleavage furrow formation, while plant cells lack this mechanism.
B. Plant cells rely on the assembly of a cell plate in the center of the dividing cell, ultimately separating the cytoplasm.
C. Cytokinesis in both plant and animal cells is driven by the expansion of the endoplasmic reticulum.
D. Both types of cells achieve cytokinesis through similar membrane pinching and constriction mechanisms.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Animal cells utilize an actomyosin ring for cleavage furrow formation, while plant cells lack this mechanism. - This statement is true. Animal cells use an actomyosin ring to form a cleavage furrow during cytokinesis, while plant cells do not have this mechanism. Instead, plant cells form a cell plate. B) Plant cells rely on the assembly of a cell plate in the center of the dividing cell, ultimately separating the cytoplasm. - This statement is correct. Plant cells form a cell plate in the middle of the dividing cell during cytokinesis. The cell plate eventually develops into a new cell wall that separates the two daughter cells. C) Cytokinesis in both plant and animal cells is driven by the expansion of the endoplasmic reticulum. - This

4. Which type of cell has a nucleus but lacks membrane-bound organelles?

A. Plant cell
B. Prokaryotic cell
C. Animal cell
D. Fungal cell

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prokaryotic cell. Prokaryotic cells are characterized by having a nucleus, known as the nucleoid, which contains genetic material but lacks a membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. Plant and animal cells (options A and C) are eukaryotic cells that have a nucleus and membrane-bound organelles. Fungal cells (option D) are also eukaryotic cells with a nucleus and organelles. Understanding the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells is essential in biology to grasp the diversity of cell structure and function.

5. Frequent, painful urination is a common symptom of:

A. Diabetes
B. Urinary tract infection (UTI)
C. Kidney stones
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Frequent, painful urination can be a symptom of various conditions affecting the urinary system. In diabetes, high blood sugar levels can lead to increased urine production. UTIs often cause painful urination due to the infection in the urinary tract. Kidney stones can also result in frequent and painful urination as they obstruct the flow of urine. Therefore, all three options can present with the common symptom of frequent, painful urination, making 'All of the above' the correct choice.