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 of the following factors does not strengthen a scientific argument?

• A. Lack of bias
• B. Extensive use of qualitative research and data
• C. Able to be reproduced and repeated by others
• D. Withstands the test of time

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. While qualitative data can provide valuable insights, it does not inherently strengthen a scientific argument to the same extent as quantitative data. Quantitative data is generally more precise, measurable, and easier to verify, making it a stronger basis for scientific arguments. Choices A, C, and D all contribute to strengthening a scientific argument. Lack of bias ensures objectivity and reliability, reproducibility by others validates the findings, and standing the test of time indicates the enduring validity and reliability of the argument.

3. Which gland located in the neck is responsible for regulating metabolism, growth, and development?

• A. Parathyroid gland
• B. Thyroid gland
• C. Pituitary gland
• D. Thymus gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is responsible for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. It produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) that play a crucial role in these functions. The parathyroid gland regulates calcium levels, the pituitary gland controls various hormonal functions, and the thymus gland is involved in immune system development. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they have different functions compared to the thyroid gland.

4. Which concentration unit depends on pressure?

• A. ppm
• B. ppb
• C. molarity
• D. molarity, ppb, and ppm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: molarity.' Molarity is the concentration unit that depends on pressure. In molarity, the concentration of a solution is expressed as the number of moles of solute per liter of solution. This means that changes in pressure can affect the volume of the solution and consequently the concentration. Choices A and B, ppm (parts per million) and ppb (parts per billion), respectively, are independent of pressure variations as they are based on mass ratios. Therefore, molarity is the only concentration unit listed that is directly influenced by changes in pressure.

5. Most catalysts found in biological systems are which of the following?

• A. Special lipids called cofactors.
• B. Special proteins called enzymes.
• C. Special lipids called enzymes.
• D. Special proteins called cofactors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Enzymes are special proteins that act as catalysts in biological systems. They accelerate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. Enzymes play a critical role in the regulation of metabolic pathways and are essential for various biological processes. While some enzymes may require cofactors for activity, the enzymes themselves are the catalysts in biological systems. Therefore, choice B, special proteins called enzymes, is the most suitable answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because enzymes, not lipids, are the primary catalysts in biological systems.

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