during which phase is the chromosome number reduced from diploid to haploid

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Biology

1. During which phase is the chromosome number reduced from diploid to haploid?

A. S phase
B. interphase
C. mitosis
D. meiosis I

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'meiosis I.' During meiosis I, the chromosome number is reduced from diploid to haploid through two rounds of division. Choice A ('S phase') is incorrect as the S phase is part of the cell cycle where DNA is replicated. Choice B ('interphase') is also incorrect as interphase is the phase where the cell prepares for division. Choice C ('mitosis') is incorrect as mitosis is a process where a diploid cell divides to produce two identical diploid daughter cells, maintaining the chromosome number.

2. From which component do RNA and DNA derive their names?

A. From the sugar each contains
B. From the structure of their nucleotides
C. From the information they transfer
D. From their formative processes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: RNA and DNA derive their names from the sugar each contains. RNA stands for Ribonucleic Acid, with 'ribo' indicating the ribose sugar in its structure. DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, with 'deoxyribo' referring to the deoxyribose sugar in its structure. The sugars in RNA and DNA molecules distinguish them and are the basis for their names. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately explain how RNA and DNA derive their names.

3. What is the composition of the plasma membrane?

A. Proteins
B. Lipids
C. Carbohydrates
D. Nucleotides

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The plasma membrane is composed of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. While proteins are an essential component of the plasma membrane, it is not the only constituent. Carbohydrates and lipids also play crucial roles in the structure and function of the plasma membrane. Nucleotides are not part of the primary structural components of the plasma membrane, making this choice incorrect.

4. Which is a byproduct of fermentation in muscle cells?

A. Ethanol
B. Pyruvic acid
C. Lactic acid
D. Oxygen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lactic acid is a byproduct of fermentation in muscle cells. During intense exercise or when oxygen is limited, muscle cells use anaerobic respiration to generate energy. This process breaks down glucose into lactic acid, which can cause muscle fatigue and soreness. Choice A, Ethanol, is not produced in muscle cells during fermentation. Choice B, Pyruvic acid, is an intermediate product in glucose metabolism but is not a byproduct of fermentation in muscle cells. Choice D, Oxygen, is not a byproduct of fermentation but a reactant in aerobic respiration.

5. Which of the following is true of Glycolysis?

A. It requires the absence of Oxygen
B. It occurs in the presence of Oxygen
C. It is the final step of fermentation
D. It is the final step of anaerobic respiration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Glycolysis is the first step in cellular respiration and can occur in both aerobic (presence of oxygen) and anaerobic (absence of oxygen) conditions. In aerobic respiration, glycolysis takes place in the presence of oxygen and continues with the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain. So, glycolysis does not require the absence of oxygen but can occur in its presence as part of the overall process of aerobic respiration. Choice A is incorrect because glycolysis can occur in the presence of oxygen. Choice C is incorrect because glycolysis is not the final step of fermentation; it is the initial step. Choice D is incorrect because glycolysis is not the final step of anaerobic respiration; it is the first step, followed by further processes to complete anaerobic respiration.