how does the stability of an atoms nucleus influence its radioactive decay

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. How does the stability of an atom's nucleus influence its radioactive decay?

A. Stable nuclei never undergo radioactive decay.
B. Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes.
C. Decay releases energy, making stable nuclei more prone to it.
D. The element's position on the periodic table determines its decay rate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes. The stability of an atom's nucleus is a crucial factor in determining whether it will undergo radioactive decay. Unstable nuclei have an excess of either protons or neutrons, causing an imbalance in the nucleus. To achieve a more stable configuration, these nuclei will undergo radioactive decay by emitting particles or energy. On the contrary, stable nuclei are less likely to undergo radioactive decay as they possess a balanced number of protons and neutrons. Choice A is incorrect because stable nuclei can still undergo radioactive decay, albeit less frequently. Choice C is incorrect as decay does not make stable nuclei more prone to it; rather, it stabilizes them. Choice D is incorrect because an element's decay rate is primarily determined by the nucleus's stability, not its position on the periodic table.

2. Most catalysts found in biological systems are which of the following?

A. Special lipids called cofactors.
B. Special proteins called enzymes.
C. Special lipids called enzymes.
D. Special proteins called cofactors.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Enzymes are special proteins that act as catalysts in biological systems. They accelerate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. Enzymes play a critical role in the regulation of metabolic pathways and are essential for various biological processes. While some enzymes may require cofactors for activity, the enzymes themselves are the catalysts in biological systems. Therefore, choice B, special proteins called enzymes, is the most suitable answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because enzymes, not lipids, are the primary catalysts in biological systems.

3. What is the function of the alveoli in the lungs?

A. To exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen
B. To transport air to the lungs
C. To filter blood
D. To produce mucus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The corrected answer is A: 'To exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen.' The alveoli in the lungs are responsible for facilitating gas exchange, where oxygen from inhaled air diffuses into the bloodstream, and carbon dioxide from the bloodstream diffuses into the alveoli to be exhaled. This process is vital for respiration and maintaining proper oxygen levels in the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect because the alveoli are not involved in transporting air to the lungs; they are primarily responsible for gas exchange. Choice C is incorrect because the alveoli do not filter blood; their main function is gas exchange. Choice D is incorrect because alveoli do not produce mucus; mucus is produced by other specialized cells in the respiratory system.

4. Two identical balls, one made of clay and the other made of steel, are dropped from the same height. Which ball reaches the ground first, neglecting air resistance?

A. The clay ball due to its lower density
B. The steel ball due to its higher density
C. Both balls reach the ground simultaneously
D. It depends on the initial velocities of the balls

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In the absence of air resistance, both balls will experience the same acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2) regardless of their densities or materials. This means that both balls will reach the ground at the same time, assuming they are dropped from the same height simultaneously. The differences in density or material composition do not affect the rate at which objects fall in a vacuum. Therefore, both the clay and steel balls, being identical in shape and starting position, will have the same free-fall acceleration and will hit the ground simultaneously. Choices A and B are incorrect because the density of the materials does not impact the time it takes for objects to fall under gravity alone. Choice D is incorrect as the initial velocities do not play a role in the time taken to fall in a vacuum, where only the acceleration due to gravity affects the motion.

5. Which of the following organs belongs to the digestive system?

A. Spine
B. Lungs
C. Brain
D. Stomach

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Stomach. The stomach is an organ of the digestive system. Its main function is to break down and digest food, allowing the nutrients to be absorbed into the body. The stomach secretes digestive enzymes and acids to help in the digestion process. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as the spine, lungs, and brain are not part of the digestive system. The spine is part of the skeletal system, the lungs belong to the respiratory system, and the brain is part of the nervous system.