homologous structures are similar structures in different organisms that have a common evolutionary origin an example is

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Test 7 science

1. Homologous structures are similar structures in different organisms that have a common evolutionary origin. An example is:

A. Butterfly wings and bird wings (analogous structures with different origins)
B. The arm of a human, the wing of a bat, and the flipper of a whale
C. The eyes of an octopus and a human (convergent evolution with different origins)
D. The stinger of a bee and the barb of a cactus (unrelated structures)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Homologous structures are similar structures found in different organisms that share a common evolutionary origin. The arm of a human, the wing of a bat, and the flipper of a whale are all examples of homologous structures. Despite serving different functions, they share a common underlying structure due to their evolutionary relationship, evidencing a shared ancestry. These structures are modified over time to suit the specific needs of each species. Option A (Butterfly wings and bird wings) refers to analogous structures with different origins. Option C (The eyes of an octopus and a human) describes convergent evolution where traits evolve independently. Option D (The stinger of a bee and the barb of a cactus) are unrelated structures.

2. What are the primary differences between systemic and pulmonary circulation?

A. Systemic circulation is shorter and has lower blood pressure
B. Pulmonary circulation is shorter and has higher blood pressure
C. Systemic circulation is longer and has higher blood pressure
D. Systemic circulation is shorter but has higher blood pressure

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Systemic circulation is longer as it involves carrying oxygenated blood throughout the body, requiring higher blood pressure. Pulmonary circulation is shorter and involves the flow of blood only through the lungs, hence having lower blood pressure. Therefore, systemic circulation is longer and has higher blood pressure compared to pulmonary circulation. Choice A is incorrect as systemic circulation is longer, not shorter, and has higher blood pressure. Choice B is incorrect as pulmonary circulation has lower blood pressure, not higher. Choice D is incorrect as systemic circulation is longer, not shorter, despite having higher blood pressure.

3. Which of the following terms refers to the process of breaking large molecules into smaller molecules to provide energy?

A. Metabolism
B. Bioenergetics
C. Anabolism
D. Catabolism

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Catabolism.' Catabolism specifically involves breaking down large molecules into smaller ones to release energy. It is the opposite of anabolism, which is the process of building larger molecules from smaller ones. 'Metabolism' (choice A) is a broader term that encompasses all chemical processes in an organism, including anabolism and catabolism. 'Bioenergetics' (choice B) refers to the flow and transformation of energy in a biological system, not specifically the breakdown of molecules for energy.

4. What is hydroxyapatite?

A. A mixture of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that strengthen the collagen matrix of bone.
B. The structural unit of a bone that runs the length of the bone.
C. The covering of bones at the point of articulation to prevent grinding.
D. The lightest portion of a long bone and concentrated at the ends.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound composed of calcium and phosphorus that plays a crucial role in strengthening the collagen matrix of bones, contributing to their structural integrity and hardness. It is a key component of bone tissue and provides the mineralization necessary for bone strength and density. Choice B is incorrect because the structural unit of a bone is the osteon or Haversian system, not hydroxyapatite. Choice C is incorrect as it describes cartilage, not hydroxyapatite. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the epiphysis, which is not synonymous with hydroxyapatite.

5. What is the main function of peroxisomes in the cell?

A. To break down hydrogen peroxide
B. To synthesize lipids and other cellular components
C. To package and transport proteins
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells that contain enzymes involved in various metabolic processes. One of the main functions of peroxisomes is to break down hydrogen peroxide, a toxic byproduct of metabolism, into water and oxygen through the action of the enzyme catalase. This process helps protect the cell from oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide. While peroxisomes are involved in other metabolic functions such as lipid metabolism and the synthesis of bile acids, their primary role is the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because peroxisomes are not primarily responsible for synthesizing lipids, packaging and transporting proteins, or storing genetic material within the cell.