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. Which of the following areas has the least amount of sweat glands?

A. Back
B. Palms
C. Axilla
D. Forehead

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B - Palms. The palms have the least amount of sweat glands compared to the other options listed. The back, axilla (armpits), and forehead are all areas with a higher concentration of sweat glands in the body. The palms have fewer sweat glands to minimize water loss and maintain a better grip for activities requiring precise and controlled movement. The back, axilla, and forehead have more sweat glands to assist in thermoregulation and cooling of the body, while the palms have fewer sweat glands for functional reasons related to grip and dexterity.

3. How are the frequency and wavelength of a wave related?

A. Inversely proportional
B. Directly proportional
C. No relationship
D. Dependent on the medium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is that the frequency and wavelength of a wave are inversely proportional. This relationship is defined by the wave equation: speed = frequency x wavelength. When the frequency of a wave increases, its wavelength decreases, and vice versa. This means that as one quantity increases, the other decreases in a consistent manner, illustrating an inverse relationship between frequency and wavelength. Choice B, 'Directly proportional,' is incorrect because an increase in frequency does not lead to an increase in wavelength; they move in opposite directions. Choice C, 'No relationship,' is incorrect as frequency and wavelength are interconnected as described above. Choice D, 'Dependent on the medium,' is incorrect because the relationship between frequency and wavelength is a fundamental property of waves and is not solely determined by the medium through which the wave propagates.

4. Which of the following is an example of a commensal relationship between a microorganism and a human?

A. Salmonella causing food poisoning
B. taphylococcus aureus causing skin infections
C. coli living in the gut
D. Rabies virus causing neurological disease

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A commensal relationship is a type of symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits, while the other is neither harmed nor benefited. In this case, E. coli living in the gut is an example of a commensal relationship because it can benefit from the environment in the gut without causing harm to the human host. Option A, Salmonella causing food poisoning, is an example of a pathogenic relationship where the microorganism causes harm to the host. Option B, Staphylococcus aureus causing skin infections, is also an example of a pathogenic relationship where the microorganism causes harm to the host. Option D, Rabies virus causing neurological disease, is another example of a pathogenic relationship where the microorganism causes harm to the host.

5. What is the main function of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland?

A. Stimulate metabolism and heat production
B. Increase calcium absorption from the intestines
C. Enhance bone growth and development
D. Lower blood calcium levels

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that primarily functions to lower blood calcium levels. It achieves this by inhibiting bone breakdown and promoting calcium excretion by the kidneys. Therefore, the correct answer is D as it reflects the main role of calcitonin in calcium homeostasis. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the primary function of calcitonin. Calcitonin does not stimulate metabolism and heat production (Choice A), increase calcium absorption from the intestines (Choice B), or enhance bone growth and development (Choice C).