how does rna polymerase differ from dna polymerase

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science study guide free

1. How does RNA polymerase differ from DNA polymerase?

A. Both enzymes are identical in function and structure.
B. RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis.
C. RNA polymerase can synthesize both RNA and DNA.
D. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, unlike DNA polymerase.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase and DNA polymerase are not identical in function and structure. They have different roles in the cell. B) This statement is correct. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis. RNA polymerase can start the synthesis of RNA de novo. C) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase is specialized for synthesizing RNA, not DNA. DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA. D) This statement is correct. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, while DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA.

2. The process by which an organism adapts to its environment through inherited traits is known as

A. Acclimatization
B. Behavioral ecology
C. Natural selection
D. Niche partitioning

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Acclimatization refers to the short-term physiological adjustments an individual organism makes in response to changes in its environment. This process is reversible and does not involve inherited traits. B) Behavioral ecology is the study of how behavior contributes to an organism's survival and reproduction in its environment. While behavior can be influenced by natural selection, it is not the process by which an organism adapts through inherited traits. C) Natural selection is the process by which organisms with advantageous traits for their environment are more likely to survive, reproduce, and pass on those traits to their offspring. Over time, this leads to the adaptation of populations to their environments. D) Niche partitioning is the process by which species divide resources to reduce competition within an ecosystem. While this can influence the evolution of species, it is not the process by which an organism adapts through inherited traits.

3. What term describes the front of the body, for example, the kneecap?

A. Posterior
B. Anterior
C. Superior
D. Inferior

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Anterior.' In anatomy, 'anterior' refers to the front of the body, like the kneecap. On the other hand, 'posterior' describes the back of the body. Choices 'C: Superior' and 'D: Inferior' relate to structures being above or below a reference point, respectively, and are not used to describe the front or back of the body. Therefore, 'Anterior' is the most appropriate term given the context provided in the question.

4. Which structure of the nervous system carries an action potential in the direction of a synapse?

A. Cell body
B. Axon
C. Neuron
D. Myelin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the axon. The axon is the elongated, threadlike part of a neuron that carries nerve impulses away from the cell body towards other neurons or target cells, such as muscles or glands, in the direction of a synapse. Action potentials travel along the axon as electrical signals to communicate with neighboring cells. The cell body (choice A) contains the nucleus and organelles but does not transmit action potentials. Neuron (choice C) is a broad term that includes the entire nerve cell, not a specific structure. Myelin (choice D) is a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates axons, aiding in the conduction of nerve impulses, but it does not directly carry the action potential towards a synapse.

5. The muscular diaphragm plays a vital role in respiration. When it contracts, it:

A. Increases lung volume for inhalation
B. Decreases lung volume for exhalation
C. Filters dust and particles from inhaled air
D. Produces mucus to lubricate the airways

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The muscular diaphragm plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and flattening during inhalation. This action increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, which leads to a decrease in pressure within the lungs, allowing air to rush in and fill the expanded space. Choice B is incorrect because the diaphragm contracting increases the lung volume for inhalation, not decreases it for exhalation. Choice C is incorrect as the role of filtering dust and particles is primarily performed by the respiratory system's other structures like the nasal passages and the mucous membranes. Choice D is incorrect as mucus production is mainly carried out by specialized cells in the respiratory system and not by the diaphragm.