Nursing Elites

1. Decomposers in an ecosystem play a vital role by:

• A. Photosynthesizing and producing organic matter
• B. Breaking down dead organisms and returning nutrients to the environment
• C. Preying on herbivores and controlling their populations
• D. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere and making it available to plants

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances. By doing so, they help to recycle nutrients back into the environment, making them available for other organisms to use. This process is essential for the functioning of ecosystems, as it ensures that nutrients are not lost but instead are continuously cycled through the ecosystem. Photosynthesis (option A) is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, and it is not a role of decomposers. Preying on herbivores (option C) is a role typically carried out by predators, not decomposers. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere (option D) is a process carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria, not decomposers.

2. Which hormone stimulates the release of pancreatic enzymes and bile?

• A. Gastrin
• B. Insulin
• C. Cholecystokinin (CCK)
• D. Glucagon

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Cholecystokinin (CCK) is the correct answer. It is the hormone that stimulates the release of pancreatic enzymes and bile. CCK is released by the small intestine in response to the presence of fats and proteins in the duodenum, triggering the release of digestive enzymes and bile to aid in the digestion of fats and proteins. Gastrin (Choice A) primarily stimulates gastric acid secretion, not the release of pancreatic enzymes and bile. Insulin (Choice B) regulates blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake. Glucagon (Choice D) raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the breakdown of glycogen in the liver.

3. Which of the following is not a biological macromolecule?

• A. Glycoproteins
• B. DNA
• C. Phospholipid
• D. Glucose

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Glucose is a monosaccharide, which is a simple sugar and not a macromolecule. Glycoproteins, DNA, and phospholipids are all examples of biological macromolecules. Glycoproteins are proteins covalently bonded to carbohydrates, DNA is a nucleic acid, and phospholipids are lipids that contain a phosphate group.

4. The resolution of an optical instrument, like a microscope, refers to its ability to distinguish between:

• A. Different colors of light
• B. The presence or absence of light
• C. Variations in intensity
• D. Very close, nearly identical objects

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The resolution of an optical instrument, such as a microscope, refers to its ability to distinguish between very close, nearly identical objects. This is crucial in microscopy to clearly visualize and differentiate fine details and structures. Resolving power plays a significant role in determining the quality and effectiveness of an optical instrument. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the resolution of an optical instrument does not primarily deal with different colors of light, presence or absence of light, or variations in intensity. Instead, it specifically focuses on the instrument's ability to differentiate between objects that are very close and nearly identical in nature.

5. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in the:

• A. Center of long bones
• B. Joints between bones
• C. Muscle tissue
• D. Walls of blood vessels

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in the joints between bones. It provides cushioning and support for the bones, allowing smooth movement and reducing friction between them. Cartilage acts as a shock absorber and helps maintain the structural integrity of the joints. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because cartilage is not typically found in the center of long bones, muscle tissue, or the walls of blood vessels. Cartilage primarily functions in providing structural support and flexibility in joints.

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