Nursing Elites

1. How many neurons typically comprise a sensory pathway?

• A. 1
• B. 2
• C. 3
• D. 4

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A sensory pathway generally consists of three neurons: a first-order neuron, a second-order neuron, and a third-order neuron. The first-order neuron carries sensory information from the periphery to the spinal cord or brainstem. The second-order neuron then transmits this information to the thalamus or cerebellum. Finally, the third-order neuron projects the sensory input to the cerebral cortex for processing and perception. Therefore, the correct answer is 3 (C). Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the typical structure of a sensory pathway involving three neurons.

2. Which property remains constant despite possible changes to the element?

• A. Atomic number
• B. Number of electrons
• C. Atomic mass
• D. Isotopic form

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Atomic number' (A). The atomic number of an element remains constant as it defines the number of protons in the nucleus, which does not change despite various chemical reactions or physical processes affecting the element. The number of protons in the nucleus determines the identity of the element, and this fundamental property remains unchanged even if the element undergoes chemical reactions, forms ions, or changes its physical state. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the number of electrons (B) can change in chemical reactions, atomic mass (C) can vary with isotopes, and isotopic form (D) refers to variations in the number of neutrons in the nucleus, which can result in different isotopes of an element.

3. How is blood pressure controlled by the body?

• A. By adjusting heart rate only
• B. By regulating blood volume
• C. By baroreceptors and hormones
• D. By adjusting body temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Blood pressure is controlled by baroreceptors located in the aortic arch and carotid arteries that detect changes in blood pressure levels. When blood pressure is high, these receptors signal for adjustments to lower it. Additionally, hormones such as renin from the kidneys are released when blood pressure drops, further aiding in blood pressure regulation. Choice A is incorrect because blood pressure regulation involves more than just adjusting heart rate; it also includes vasodilation and vasoconstriction. Choice B is incorrect as while blood volume can impact blood pressure, it is not the primary mechanism of blood pressure control. Choice D is incorrect as body temperature regulation is a separate physiological process and not directly related to blood pressure control.

4. Which term describes the allele for green eyes?

• A. Dominant
• B. Recessive
• C. Homozygous
• D. Heterozygous

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Recessive.' In genetics, eye color is determined by multiple genes, with green eyes often being associated with a recessive allele. When an individual carries two copies of the recessive allele for green eyes, they will express this eye color. Dominant alleles are expressed over recessive alleles. Homozygous refers to having two identical alleles for a particular gene, and heterozygous refers to having two different alleles. In this context, the allele for green eyes is recessive, meaning it is expressed only when an individual carries two copies of this specific allele. Therefore, 'Recessive' is the most appropriate term to describe the allele for green eyes, making it the correct answer.

5. What is the difference between alpha decay and beta decay?

• A. Both release the same type of particle.
• B. Alpha decay releases a helium nucleus, while beta decay releases an electron or positron.
• C. Alpha decay is more common than beta decay.
• D. They both convert one element into another, but in different ways.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alpha decay involves the release of a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. In contrast, beta decay releases an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay). This significant distinction in the particles emitted during the decay processes distinguishes alpha decay from beta decay. Choice A is incorrect because alpha and beta decay release different types of particles. Choice C is incorrect as beta decay is more common than alpha decay in many cases. Choice D is incorrect as it does not specifically address the particles released during alpha and beta decay.

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