how are genetic markers used in paternity testing

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. How are genetic markers utilized in paternity testing?

A. They identify unique sequences in the father's DNA present in the child.
B. They analyze the presence or absence of specific alleles for certain genes.
C. They compare the child's blood type to the parents' blood types.
D. They measure the child's physical resemblance to the father.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Genetic markers are specific DNA sequences that can vary among individuals. In paternity testing, genetic markers are used to compare the DNA of the child with that of the alleged father. By analyzing the presence or absence of specific alleles (different forms of a gene) at these genetic markers, scientists can determine the likelihood of paternity. This method is more accurate and reliable than comparing blood types (choice C) or physical resemblance (choice D) as genetic markers provide a direct comparison of DNA sequences between individuals. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it accurately describes the use of genetic markers in paternity testing.

2. Which term describes the quantity of matter in an object and is measured in kilograms or grams?

A. Weight
B. Mass
C. Volume
D. Density

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mass is the quantity of matter in an object and is commonly measured in kilograms or grams. It is a fundamental property of matter and remains constant regardless of the object's location. Weight, in contrast, refers to the force of gravity acting on an object and is measured in newtons. Volume represents the amount of space an object occupies and is typically measured in cubic units like cubic meters or cubic centimeters. Density, on the other hand, is the mass of an object per unit volume, and its unit is, for example, kilograms per cubic meter. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Mass' as it specifically describes the quantity of matter in an object, regardless of the gravitational pull on it. 'Weight,' 'Volume,' and 'Density' do not directly represent the quantity of matter in an object but rather different properties related to it.

3. When sodium hydroxide (NaOH) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), the resulting product is:

A. Hydrogen gas and sodium chloride (NaCl)
B. Chlorine gas and sodium oxide (Na2O)
C. Sodium metal (Na) and water (H2O)
D. No reaction occurs.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When sodium hydroxide (NaOH) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), a neutralization reaction occurs. The products of this reaction are water (H2O) and a salt, which is sodium chloride (NaCl). The chemical equation for this reaction is: NaOH + HCl -> NaCl + H2O. Choice B is incorrect because chlorine gas and sodium oxide are not the products of this reaction. Choice C is incorrect as sodium metal and water are not the products formed in this neutralization reaction. Choice D is incorrect because a reaction does occur between NaOH and HCl, resulting in the formation of NaCl and H2O. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Hydrogen gas and sodium chloride (NaCl).

4. Which of the following scenarios represents an example of static friction?

A. Sliding a heavy box across the floor
B. A car moving around a curve
C. Pushing a stationary object
D. Braking a car to stop

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Static friction occurs when two surfaces are in contact but not moving relative to each other. Pushing a stationary object involves static friction as you apply a force to overcome the friction keeping the object stationary. Choices A, B, and D involve kinetic friction, which occurs when two surfaces are moving relative to each other. Option A involves moving the box across the floor, which is an example of kinetic friction. Option B involves the movement of a car around a curve, which also relates to kinetic friction due to the relative movement between the tires and the road. Option D describes braking a car to stop, where the moving car's wheels interact with the road, creating kinetic friction to slow down and stop the car.

5. What is the process by which ribosomes use transcribed RNA to assemble the required protein?

A. Translation
B. Transcription
C. Replication
D. Duplication

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Translation is the correct process where ribosomes decode mRNA to synthesize proteins, following the sequence of codons in the mRNA. During translation, ribosomes use the transcribed RNA (mRNA) as a template to assemble amino acids into a protein according to the genetic code carried by the mRNA. Choice B, Transcription, is incorrect as it is the process of synthesizing mRNA from a DNA template. Choice C, Replication, is also incorrect as it involves the duplication of DNA to produce an identical copy. Choice D, Duplication, is not a biological term related to protein synthesis, making it an incorrect choice.