HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology Practice Test
1. Epithelial cells are:
- A. Polarized
- B. Neutral
- C. Larger than other cells
- D. None of the above
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Epithelial cells have a distinct top (apical) and bottom (basal) side, demonstrating polarity. This polarity is essential for their specialized functions, such as secretion, absorption, and barrier formation. Choice B, 'Neutral,' is incorrect as epithelial cells exhibit polarity. Choice C, 'Larger than other cells,' is incorrect as epithelial cells come in various sizes and are not specifically larger than other cell types. Choice D, 'None of the above,' is incorrect as epithelial cells are indeed polarized.
2. Prokaryotic cells:
- A. Have a nucleus
- B. Have a capsule
- C. Have membrane-bound organelles
- D. Cannot move on their own
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. One characteristic feature of prokaryotic cells is the presence of a capsule, which is a protective layer outside the cell wall. This capsule helps the prokaryotic cell adhere to surfaces, evade the host immune system, and protect against desiccation. Choice A is incorrect because prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus. Choice C is incorrect as prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles. Choice D is incorrect as prokaryotic cells can move using structures like flagella or pili.
3. The force per unit area exerted against a surface by the weight of air above that surface in the Earth's atmosphere is the ______.
- A. Atmospheric pressure
- B. Barometric density
- C. Aneroid pressure
- D. Barometric pressure
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Atmospheric pressure is the correct term for the force per unit area exerted against a surface by the weight of air above that surface in the Earth's atmosphere. It is commonly measured in units such as pascals, millibars, or inches of mercury. Barometric density and aneroid pressure are not accurate descriptions for this phenomenon. Barometric density refers to the density of the atmosphere at a particular location, while aneroid pressure is linked to a type of barometer but not a comprehensive term for the force exerted by the weight of air.
4. Which organism reproduces via spore formation?
- A. Shelf fungus
- B. Lemon tree
- C. Smallmouth bass
- D. Staphylococcus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, Shelf fungus. Shelf fungus reproduces via spore formation. Spores are tiny, reproductive cells that are released into the environment to be carried by air or water, allowing the fungus to spread and reproduce. The other choices are incorrect because Lemon tree reproduces via seeds, Smallmouth bass reproduce sexually through the fertilization of eggs by sperm, and Staphylococcus bacteria reproduce by binary fission, dividing into two identical daughter cells.
5. What is the term for the movement of ions and other molecular substances across cell membranes without the need for energy?
- A. Active Transport
- B. Passive Transport
- C. Diffusion
- D. Osmosis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Passive transport refers to the movement of substances across cell membranes without the need for energy input. In contrast, active transport, choice A, requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient. Diffusion, choice C, is a type of passive transport where substances move from an area of high concentration to low concentration. Osmosis, choice D, specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane.
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