Nursing Elites

1. Within a nuclear reactor, control rods serve the primary purpose of:

• A. Reflecting neutrons back into the core
• B. Absorbing excess neutrons to control criticality
• C. Moderating the velocity of neutrons
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Control rods within a nuclear reactor serve the primary purpose of absorbing excess neutrons to control criticality. By adjusting the position of the control rods, the reactor operators can regulate the rate of fission reactions and prevent the reactor from overheating or reaching a state of uncontrolled chain reaction. Reflecting neutrons back into the core and moderating the velocity of neutrons are not the primary functions of control rods. Reflectors are used to bounce neutrons back into the core, while moderators slow down fast neutrons to increase the likelihood of fission. Therefore, the correct answer is B: 'Absorbing excess neutrons to control criticality.'

2. Nuclear fission is a process characterized by:

• A. A heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and releasing energy
• B. The fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element
• C. A lighter element emitting an alpha particle through radioactive decay
• D. An electron being absorbed by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nuclear fission is a process characterized by a heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and splitting into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation. This differs from nuclear fusion, which involves the merging of two lighter nuclei to form a heavier element. The emission of an alpha particle by a lighter element is a form of radioactive decay, not fission. Absorption of an electron by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray is not representative of fission reactions. Therefore, option A correctly describes the process of nuclear fission.

3. Which division of the nervous system is responsible for the "fight or flight" response, preparing the body to respond to stressful situations?

• A. Somatic nervous system
• B. Autonomic nervous system
• C. Peripheral nervous system
• D. Central nervous system

Correct answer: b

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Autonomic nervous system. The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary bodily functions, including the 'fight or flight' response. This response is crucial for survival, triggering the body to prepare for action in stressful situations by increasing heart rate, dilating pupils, and releasing adrenaline. The somatic nervous system (A) controls voluntary movements, the peripheral nervous system (C) connects the central nervous system to the rest of the body, and the central nervous system (D) consists of the brain and spinal cord, overseeing all bodily functions but not directly involved in the 'fight or flight' response.

4. Which hormone, produced by the adrenal glands, is essential for the regulation of electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, in the body?

• A. Aldosterone
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Cortisol
• D. Insulin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Aldosterone. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in regulating electrolyte balance, especially sodium and potassium levels in the body. It acts on the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium and excretion of potassium, which helps to maintain proper fluid balance and blood pressure. Epinephrine (B) is involved in the 'fight or flight' response, cortisol (C) is a stress hormone, and insulin (D) regulates blood sugar levels, but neither of these hormones primarily regulates electrolyte balance like aldosterone does.

5. If the mass of an object remains constant and its velocity doubles, how does its momentum change?

• A. Momentum doubles
• B. Momentum halves
• C. Momentum quadruples
• D. Momentum remains the same

Correct answer: a

Rationale: Momentum is directly proportional to velocity when mass is constant.

6. The stomach produces a strong acid to help break down food. What is the name of this acid?

• A. Hydrochloric acid
• B. Lactic acid
• C. Bile
• D. Fatty acid

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hydrochloric acid. The stomach produces hydrochloric acid to help break down food by lowering the pH level in the stomach, creating an acidic environment that aids in the digestion of proteins and other nutrients. Lactic acid is produced in muscles during exercise and is not related to stomach digestion. Bile is produced by the liver and helps in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Fatty acids are a type of molecule that is a component of fats, not the acid produced by the stomach for digestion.

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