HESI A2
Biology HESI A2 Practice Test
1. How does asexual reproduction differ from sexual reproduction?
- A. asexual reproduction results in all cells being identical to the original cell; sexual reproduction results in half of the cells being identical to the original cell
- B. asexual reproduction results in two cells that contribute genetic material to daughter cells, resulting in significantly greater variation
- C. sexual reproduction involves two cells that contribute genetic material to daughter cells, resulting in significantly greater variation
- D. sexual reproduction involves one cell that yields all cells produced to be identical
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Sexual reproduction involves two cells (gametes) that contribute genetic material to daughter cells, resulting in significantly greater genetic variation in the offspring. This genetic variation is essential for evolution and adaptation to environmental changes. In contrast, asexual reproduction involves one cell dividing to produce offspring that are genetically identical to the parent cell. Choice A is incorrect because sexual reproduction does not result in half of the cells being identical to the original cell; it involves two cells contributing genetic material. Choice B is incorrect because asexual reproduction does not result in significantly greater variation; it produces genetically identical offspring. Choice D is incorrect because sexual reproduction involves two cells contributing genetic material, not one cell yielding all identical cells.
2. Which of the following is not found within a bacterial cell?
- A. mitochondria
- B. DNA
- C. vesicles
- D. ribosome
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: mitochondria. Mitochondria are not found in bacterial cells. Bacterial cells lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, which are commonly found in eukaryotic cells. Choices B, C, and D are all components that can be found within a bacterial cell. Bacterial cells contain DNA as their genetic material, vesicles for various cellular functions, and ribosomes for protein synthesis. Therefore, the presence of mitochondria is the distinguishing factor that is not found in bacterial cells, making option A the correct answer.
3. What type of cells possess a cell membrane?
- A. Prokaryotic cells only
- B. Eukaryotic cells only
- C. Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
- D. None of the above
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Cell membranes are present in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. The cell membrane serves as a barrier that encloses the cell contents and regulates the entry and exit of substances in and out of the cell. It is a fundamental structure found in all types of cells, regardless of whether they are prokaryotic (lacking a nucleus) or eukaryotic (containing a nucleus). Choice A is incorrect because eukaryotic cells also possess cell membranes. Choice B is incorrect as prokaryotic cells, such as bacteria, also have cell membranes. Choice D is incorrect as both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have cell membranes.
4. How do animal cells divide?
- A. Through a contractile ring
- B. Via a cell plate
- C. Both methods
- D. None of the above
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Animal cells divide through a contractile ring made of actin and myosin filaments. The ring contracts, pinching the cell membrane in the middle to form two daughter cells. Plant cells use a cell plate due to their rigid cell walls, making choices B and C incorrect. Choice D is incorrect as animal cells do use the contractile ring method for division.
5. Where is the genetic information of a eukaryotic cell stored?
- A. Mitochondria
- B. Nucleus
- C. Golgi Apparatus
- D. Cytoplasm
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nucleus. In eukaryotic cells, genetic information (DNA) is stored in the nucleus. This organelle acts as the control center of the cell, housing the DNA and regulating gene expression. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the genetic information is not stored in the mitochondria, Golgi Apparatus, or cytoplasm. The mitochondria are responsible for energy production, the Golgi Apparatus is involved in protein processing and packaging, and the cytoplasm is where various cellular activities take place, but none of these organelles store the genetic information.
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