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. When two cars with different masses collide head-on, which car experiences a greater change in momentum?

• A. The car with the larger mass
• B. The car with the smaller mass
• C. Both cars experience the same change in momentum
• D. It depends on the initial velocities of the cars

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a head-on collision between two cars, the law of conservation of momentum states that the total momentum of the isolated system remains constant before and after the collision. The change in momentum of one car is equal in magnitude but opposite in direction to the change in momentum of the other car. As a result, both cars experience the same change in momentum during the collision. Choice A is incorrect because the change in momentum is the same for both cars due to the conservation of momentum principle. Choice B is incorrect as the smaller mass car does not experience a greater change in momentum. Choice D is incorrect as the initial velocities of the cars do not determine which car experiences a greater change in momentum; it is solely dependent on the masses of the colliding cars.

3. What element is responsible for the red color of blood?

• A. Magnesium
• B. Iron
• C. Copper
• D. Zinc

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Iron. Hemoglobin, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells, contains iron in its heme group, contributing to the blood's characteristic red color. Magnesium (choice A), copper (choice C), and zinc (choice D) are not responsible for the red color of blood. Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in various physiological processes, copper is a trace element important for enzyme function, and zinc is a micronutrient essential for multiple cellular functions but not related to the red color of blood.

4. Which neurotransmitter is associated with mood, sleep, and memory?

• A. Dopamine
• B. Serotonin
• C. Acetylcholine
• D. Glutamate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with regulating mood, sleep, and memory. It plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional balance and is often a target in treating mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Serotonin also helps regulate sleep patterns and is connected to memory function. Dopamine (choice A) is more commonly linked to reward, motivation, and movement. Acetylcholine (choice C) is involved in muscle control and memory. Glutamate (choice D) is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain but is not primarily associated with mood, sleep, and memory.

5. What are the tiny contractile units within muscle cells called?

• A. Myocytes
• B. Myofibrils
• C. Sarcomeres
• D. Tendons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the smallest contractile units within muscle cells. They consist of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins, which interact to produce muscle contractions. Myocytes are the entire muscle cells, myofibrils are bundles of protein filaments found within muscle cells, and tendons are tough connective tissues that connect muscles to bones. Therefore, sarcomeres specifically represent the contractile units responsible for muscle contraction, making them the correct answer in this context.

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