adaptive radiation refers to the evolutionary process where

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 practice test science

1. Adaptive radiation refers to the evolutionary process where:

A. A single ancestral species diversifies into multiple descendant species due to ecological pressures in a heterogeneous environment.
B. Two unrelated species evolve similar adaptations in response to similar environments, leading to convergent evolution.
C. A population becomes increasingly well-adapted to its current environment through continued natural selection.
D. The fossil record exhibits gaps or missing links in the evolutionary history of a lineage.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: - Adaptive radiation is a process where a single ancestral species diversifies into multiple descendant species to exploit different ecological niches within a heterogeneous environment. - This diversification occurs due to the different selective pressures present in various habitats, leading to the evolution of distinct traits and adaptations in different descendant species. - Option A accurately describes the process of adaptive radiation, where the initial species undergoes rapid speciation to occupy different ecological roles and adapt to diverse environmental conditions. - Options B, C, and D do not accurately describe adaptive radiation but refer to other evolutionary processes such as convergent evolution, natural selection, and gaps in the fossil record, respectively.

2. Urinary system health can be maintained through various lifestyle practices. Which of the following is NOT recommended for optimal urinary system health?

A. Limiting high-sodium foods in the diet
B. Consuming adequate amounts of cranberry juice
C. Holding urine in the bladder for long periods
D. Getting regular moderate-intensity exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Holding urine in the bladder for long periods is not recommended for optimal urinary system health. It can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and other bladder-related issues. When urine is held for a long time, bacteria have more time to multiply in the bladder, leading to infections. Additionally, holding urine for prolonged periods can also contribute to bladder distension, which may affect bladder function over time. Therefore, it is crucial to empty the bladder regularly to maintain good urinary system health. Limiting high-sodium foods helps reduce the risk of kidney stones and high blood pressure, while consuming cranberry juice may help prevent urinary tract infections by interfering with the adhesion of bacteria to the bladder walls. Regular moderate-intensity exercise promotes overall health, including maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic conditions that can impact the urinary system.

3. Which of the following represents the strongest scientific argument?

A. Scientific Hypothesis
B. Scientific Law
C. Scientific Study Conclusion
D. Scientific Theory

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Scientific Theory.' A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world. It is based on a large body of evidence and has withstood rigorous testing and scrutiny. Scientific theories are considered the strongest scientific arguments because they have predictive power and are supported by a significant amount of empirical data. Choice A, 'Scientific Hypothesis,' is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon but lacks the extensive evidence and testing that theories undergo. Choice B, 'Scientific Law,' describes a consistent and predictable relationship between variables but does not explain why the relationship exists. Choice C, 'Scientific Study Conclusion,' may be based on a single study and lacks the comprehensive nature and validation that theories possess.

4. Which types of glial cells are in the PNS?

A. Schwann cells, satellite cells
B. Astrocytes, oligodendrocytes
C. Microglia, ependymal cells
D. Satellite cells, oligodendrocytes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, which includes Schwann cells and satellite cells as the types of glial cells found in the peripheral nervous system. Schwann cells support neurons and myelinate axons, while satellite cells provide structural support and regulate the microenvironment around neurons in the PNS. Options B, C, and D are incorrect as they refer to glial cell types that are typically found in the central nervous system, not the peripheral nervous system. Astrocytes and oligodendrocytes are primarily located in the CNS, where they perform functions such as providing structural support and forming the blood-brain barrier. Microglia are immune cells found in the CNS responsible for immune defense and maintenance of neural environment, while ependymal cells line the cerebral ventricles and the central canal of the spinal cord, contributing to the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid.

5. Which type of carbohydrate is the main component of the cell wall in plant cells?

A. Starch
B. Glucose
C. Cellulose
D. Chitin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Cellulose.' Cellulose is the main component of the cell wall in plant cells, providing structural support and rigidity. Starch, while a carbohydrate, is a storage form of glucose in plants and not a component of the cell wall. Glucose is a simple sugar that can be used as an energy source but is not the main component of the cell wall. Chitin is a structural carbohydrate found in the exoskeleton of arthropods and fungi, not in plant cell walls.