autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues what is a potential cause of autoimmune diseases

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues. What is a potential cause of autoimmune diseases?

A. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals
B. Exposure to environmental toxins
C. Breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Autoimmune diseases result from a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms, leading to the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy body tissues. While deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals or exposure to environmental toxins can impact overall health, they are not direct causes of autoimmune diseases. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals may weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to various health issues but does not directly cause autoimmune diseases. Exposure to environmental toxins can trigger immune responses, but autoimmune diseases specifically stem from the breakdown of self-tolerance mechanisms within immune cells. Therefore, the correct answer is a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms.

2. 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: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These alterations can lead to modifications in the genetic information carried by an organism, resulting in effects that can range from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations play a crucial role in genetic diversity and evolution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define what a mutation is. Option B is incorrect because mutations are not a type of protein but rather changes in DNA. Option C is incorrect because while mutations can occur during DNA replication, they are not considered a 'normal' part of the process as they can lead to genetic variations. Option D is incorrect because mutations can have a wide range of effects and are not always harmless variations.

3. If every child in a certain family suffers from autism, what possible conclusion can be drawn about autism?

A. Autism may be lethal.
B. Autism may be genetic.
C. Autism is related to traditional nuclear family structures.
D. No conclusion can be drawn based on this evidence.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The possible conclusion that can be drawn from every child in a certain family suffering from autism is that autism may be genetic. The fact that every child in the family has autism suggests a strong genetic influence on the condition within this particular family. This does not necessarily mean that autism is solely genetic in all cases, but in this specific family, the pattern of all children being affected points towards a genetic connection. Choice A is incorrect as the information provided does not suggest that autism is lethal. Choice C is incorrect as there is no evidence to support a relationship between autism and traditional nuclear family structures. Choice D is incorrect because a conclusion can be drawn from the given evidence, indicating a potential genetic link within this specific family.

4. Which law of motion explains the behavior of rockets in space?

A. Newton's First Law
B. Newton's Second Law
C. Newton's Third Law
D. None of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Newton's Third Law. Newton's Third Law states that for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. In the case of rockets in space, the action is the expulsion of gas from the rocket engines, and the reaction is the forward motion of the rocket. This law explains how rockets are able to propel themselves forward in the vacuum of space. Choices A and B are incorrect because Newton's First Law (inertia) and Second Law (F=ma) do not directly explain the behavior of rockets in space. Choice D is incorrect as Newton's Third Law specifically addresses the principle behind rockets' motion in space.

5. Which of the following substances can donate a hydroxide ion (OH-) in solution?

A. Salt
B. Base
C. Neutral compound
D. Dehydrating agent

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Base. A base is a substance that can donate hydroxide ions (OH-) in solution. Bases increase the concentration of hydroxide ions by either accepting protons (H+) or donating hydroxide ions. Salts are ionic compounds made of cations and anions, which do not directly donate hydroxide ions. Neutral compounds do not significantly affect the concentration of hydroxide ions. Dehydrating agents are substances that remove water molecules from other compounds, unrelated to donating hydroxide ions.