how do isotopes affect the atomic mass of an element

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. How do isotopes affect the atomic mass of an element?

A. Isotopes have no effect on the atomic mass of an element.
B. Isotopes cause the atomic mass of an element to vary slightly.
C. Isotopes cause the atomic mass of an element to be exactly the same for all isotopes of that element.
D. Isotopes cause the atomic mass of an element to vary greatly.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. Since the atomic mass of an element is the weighted average of the masses of its isotopes, the presence of isotopes causes the atomic mass of an element to vary slightly. This variation occurs because different isotopes have different masses due to their varying numbers of neutrons. The atomic mass is affected by the abundance of each isotope, leading to a slight fluctuation in the overall atomic mass of the element. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes do influence the atomic mass. Choice C is incorrect because isotopes have different masses, affecting the overall atomic mass. Choice D is incorrect as isotopes typically do not cause a significant variation in atomic mass, but rather a slight fluctuation.

2. Which of the following represents the three main parts of a neuron?

A. effector, cell body, axon
B. dendrites, axon, cell body
C. dendrites, axon, receptor
D. synapse, axon, cell body

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A neuron consists of three main parts: dendrites, axon, and cell body. Dendrites receive signals from other neurons or sensory receptors. The cell body (soma) contains the nucleus and organelles essential for neuron function. The axon transmits electrical impulses away from the cell body to other neurons, muscles, or glands. Choice A is incorrect because an effector is not a part of a neuron. Choice C is incorrect because a receptor is not a component of a neuron but rather interacts with neurons. Choice D is incorrect because the synapse is a junction between neurons for signal transmission, not a structural part of a neuron.

3. Which of the following is considered an intensive property?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Density is an intensive property because it does not depend on the amount of matter present. Intensive properties are independent of the quantity of the substance and remain constant regardless of the size or amount of the sample being measured. Mass, weight, and volume are extensive properties that depend on the amount of substance present. Mass and weight change with the amount of matter, while volume changes as the quantity of the substance changes. Therefore, they are not considered intensive properties.

4. What accurately describes the Linnaean system of classification?

A. It focuses on evolutionary relationships between organisms.
B. It uses dichotomous keys for identification.
C. It groups organisms based on shared functions.
D. It emphasizes a hierarchical ranking system.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The Linnaean system of classification, developed by Carl Linnaeus, is based on a hierarchical ranking system where organisms are grouped into categories based on shared characteristics. This system organizes organisms into a hierarchy of increasingly specific categories, from broad to narrow, such as kingdom, phylum, class, order, family, genus, and species. The emphasis on a hierarchical ranking system allows for systematic organization and classification of a wide variety of organisms based on their similarities and differences, making it easier to study and understand the diversity of life forms. Choice A is incorrect because the Linnaean system is not primarily focused on evolutionary relationships but rather on shared characteristics for classification. Choice B is incorrect because dichotomous keys are tools used for identifying organisms, not the fundamental basis of the Linnaean system. Choice C is incorrect as the Linnaean system categorizes organisms based on shared characteristics, not shared functions.

5. Which hormone, produced by the pineal gland, plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and is often associated with the body's internal circadian rhythm?

A. Melatonin
B. Serotonin
C. Dopamine
D. Endorphin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Melatonin is the hormone produced by the pineal gland that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and is associated with the body's internal circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening, signaling to the body that it is time to sleep, and decrease in the morning, helping to wake up and feel alert. Serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins are neurotransmitters that serve different functions in the body and are not primarily responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. Serotonin is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep. Dopamine plays a role in reward-motivated behavior and motor control. Endorphins are involved in pain regulation and are often referred to as the body's natural painkillers.