TEAS Physics: Key Concepts for Exam Success

ATI TEAS 7

Physics

1. What is the main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb?

A. Reactors use enriched uranium, while bombs use natural uranium.
B. Reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions.
C. Reactors generate electricity, while bombs cause explosions.
D. Reactors use moderators, while bombs don't.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The key difference lies in the control of the fission chain reaction. Reactors have controlled reactions for energy generation, while bombs have rapid, uncontrolled reactions creating explosions.

2. What is the scientific term for a broken bone?

A. Osteoporosis
B. Fracture
C. Sprain
D. Dislocation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Fracture.' A fracture is the scientific term used to describe a broken bone. Osteoporosis (A) is a condition where bones become weak and brittle, increasing the risk of fractures. A sprain (C) is an injury to a ligament, not a bone. A dislocation (D) occurs when the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal position, but it is not the term for a broken bone.

3. A block slides down a frictionless inclined plane. What determines its final velocity at the bottom?

A. The length of the incline
B. The angle of the incline
C. The mass of the block
D. All of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the absence of friction, the final velocity depends only on the gravitational potential energy gained, which is determined by the height difference related to the angle of the incline.

4. The phrase "survival of the fittest" refers to:

A. Organisms with the most complex anatomical structures are more likely to survive and reproduce.
B. Organisms that demonstrate the best adaptations to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproduction.
C. All organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success regardless of their traits.
D. Only the strongest and most aggressive individuals within a population will survive and reproduce.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The phrase "survival of the fittest" is often associated with the concept of natural selection, which was proposed by Charles Darwin. Natural selection is the process by which organisms that are best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to the next generation. This process does not necessarily favor the most complex anatomical structures (option A) or the strongest and most aggressive individuals (option D). Instead, it emphasizes the importance of adaptations that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. Option C is incorrect because natural selection results in differential reproductive success based on an organism's traits, meaning that not all organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success.

5. 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.