decomposers in an ecosystem play a vital role by

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science quizlet

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. What type of reaction is represented by the following equation: 2C₆H₁₄ + 19O₂ → 12CO + 14H₂O?

A. Substitution reaction
B. Acid-base reaction
C. Enzyme reaction
D. Combustion reaction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The given chemical equation represents a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions involve the burning of a hydrocarbon (C₆H₁₄) in the presence of oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon monoxide (CO) and water (H₂O). Combustion reactions typically release heat and light energy. In this case, the reactants are a hydrocarbon and oxygen, resulting in the formation of carbon monoxide and water. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the reaction does not involve substitution, acid-base reactions, or enzyme catalysis. Combustion reactions are characterized by the rapid combination of a substance with oxygen, leading to the production of heat and light energy.

3. What hormones are produced in the ovaries, and what are their functions?

A. Insulin: regulates blood sugar levels
B. Progesterone: stimulates uterine lining growth
C. Adrenaline: increases heart rate
D. Cortisol: regulates stress response

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Progesterone, produced in the ovaries, stimulates uterine lining growth and plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Insulin is produced in the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels, not in the ovaries. Adrenaline is produced by the adrenal glands and increases heart rate in response to stress or danger, not in the ovaries. Cortisol, also produced by the adrenal glands, helps regulate the body's response to stress, not in the ovaries.

4. What is the molar mass of Ca(NO3)2?

A. 74.1 g/mol
B. 132.1 g/mol
C. 164.1 g/mol
D. 78.1 g/mol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To calculate the molar mass of Ca(NO3)2, we add up the individual atomic masses of its elements: Ca (40.08) + 2N (2 * 14.01) + 6O (6 * 16.00) = 40.08 + 28.02 + 96.00 = 164.1 g/mol. Therefore, the correct answer is 164.1 g/mol (Choice C). Choice A (74.1 g/mol) is incorrect as it does not account for the correct sum of atomic masses. Choice B (132.1 g/mol) is the correct molar mass calculation for Ca(NO3)2. Choice D (78.1 g/mol) is incorrect and does not reflect the accurate molar mass of the compound.

5. Which blood type is considered a universal donor?

A. A
B. B
C. AB
D. O

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Blood type O is considered the universal donor because individuals with type O blood can donate red blood cells to individuals with any ABO blood type (A, B, AB, or O) without causing an adverse reaction. Type O blood lacks A or B antigens on the surface of red blood cells, minimizing the risk of an immune response when transfused into individuals with different blood types. Therefore, type O blood is in high demand for blood transfusions in emergency situations when the recipient's blood type is unknown or when there is a shortage of specific blood types. Choices A, B, and AB are not considered universal donors. Individuals with blood types A, B, or AB can only donate to individuals with compatible blood types to avoid adverse reactions since they have A and/or B antigens on the surface of their red blood cells, making them incompatible with all blood types.