how do dna and rna function together as part of the human genome

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

1. How do DNA and RNA function together as part of the human genome?

A. DNA carries genetic information from RNA to the cell cytoplasm.
B. RNA carries genetic information from DNA to the cell cytoplasm.
C. DNA and RNA carry genetic information from the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm.
D. DNA and RNA do not interact within the cell.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. RNA acts as a messenger carrying genetic instructions from the DNA in the nucleus to the cytoplasm, where proteins are synthesized. This process is known as transcription and translation, where DNA provides the blueprint for protein synthesis, and RNA delivers this information to the cellular machinery in the cytoplasm. Choice A is incorrect as it inaccurately states that DNA carries genetic information from RNA, which is the opposite of the actual flow of information. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests that both DNA and RNA together carry genetic information from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, which is not accurate. Choice D is incorrect as DNA and RNA do interact within the cell, playing crucial roles in genetic information processing and protein synthesis.

2. Where does sperm maturation take place in the male reproductive system?

A. Seminal vesicles
B. Prostate gland
C. Epididymis
D. Vas Deferens

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sperm maturation occurs in the epididymis, a coiled tube located on the back of each testicle. In the epididymis, sperm gain motility and the ability to fertilize an egg. It serves as a storage site for mature sperm until ejaculation. The seminal vesicles and the prostate gland contribute fluids to semen, enhancing sperm viability and motility. The vas deferens is responsible for transporting mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation, but it is not where sperm maturation takes place. Therefore, the correct answer is the epididymis.

3. What is the process by which RNA molecules are modified after transcription but before translation?

A. Replication
B. Splicing
C. Editing
D. Packaging

Correct answer: B

Rationale: B) Splicing is the correct answer. Splicing is the process by which non-coding regions (introns) are removed from pre-mRNA, and the remaining coding regions (exons) are joined together to form mature mRNA. This modification occurs after transcription but before translation. A) Replication is incorrect as replication is the process by which DNA is copied to produce a new DNA molecule, not RNA modifications. C) Editing may involve RNA editing, but it is not commonly used to describe the modification of RNA molecules after transcription. D) Packaging is not the correct term as it refers to the condensation and organization of DNA into chromatin in eukaryotic cells, not the modification of RNA molecules.

4. Which of the following organelles is responsible for producing ATP in the cell?

A. Golgi apparatus
B. Mitochondria
C. Nucleus
D. Ribosome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell and are responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration. ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the energy currency of the cell that is essential for various cellular processes. The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion. The nucleus is responsible for housing the cell's genetic material and controlling cell activities. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis. However, the actual production of ATP occurs in the mitochondria through processes like the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation.

5. What is the difference between the atomic number and the mass number of an atom?

A. The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus, while the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
B. The atomic number is the number of electrons in an atom, while the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
C. The atomic number is the number of neutrons in the nucleus, while the mass number is the total number of protons and electrons in an atom.
D. The atomic number is the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, while the mass number is the total number of electrons in an atom.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The atomic number of an atom represents the number of protons in its nucleus, which defines the element's identity. On the other hand, the mass number corresponds to the total sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. Therefore, the key distinction between the atomic number and the mass number lies in the fact that the atomic number specifically counts the protons, whereas the mass number encompasses both protons and neutrons. Choice B is incorrect because the atomic number is not related to the number of electrons but rather to the number of protons. Choice C is incorrect because the atomic number is not the number of neutrons but the number of protons. Choice D is incorrect because the atomic number does not include neutrons; it is solely the number of protons.