in nature water vapor becomes liquid water through the process of

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 Practice Exam

1. In nature, water vapor becomes liquid water through the process of ___________.

A. condensation
B. sublimation
C. precipitation
D. absorption

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In nature, water vapor becomes liquid water through the process of condensation. Condensation occurs when water vapor cools and changes its state from a gas to a liquid, forming droplets that we commonly see as water droplets on surfaces or clouds in the sky. Sublimation refers to the transition from a solid to a gas without passing through the liquid phase. Precipitation is the process where water in the atmosphere falls to the ground as rain, snow, sleet, or hail. Absorption is the process of one substance being taken in by another.

2. 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.

3. The cell membrane consists of a bilayer of phospholipids with proteins, cholesterol, and glycoproteins. What does this bilayer create?

A. Impermeable
B. Permeable
C. Selectively permeable
D. Selectively impermeable

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Selectively permeable.' The cell membrane's bilayer structure allows it to be selectively permeable, meaning it can control the passage of substances. This property enables the membrane to regulate the entry and exit of specific molecules, ions, and other substances. Choice A, 'Impermeable,' is incorrect as the cell membrane is not completely impermeable and does allow certain substances to pass through. Choice B, 'Permeable,' is also incorrect as it does not address the selective nature of the membrane. Choice D, 'Selectively impermeable,' is a contradictory term and does not accurately describe the cell membrane's function.

4. How many pairs of homologous chromosomes do humans have?

A. 13
B. 23
C. 26
D. 46

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 46. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, which include 22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes. Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that contain the same genes, one from each parent. Therefore, humans have a total of 46 chromosomes, with 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not represent the total number of chromosomes in humans or the number of pairs of homologous chromosomes.

5. What helps the cell maintain its shape and allows it to adapt?

A. Microfilaments
B. Cytoplasm
C. Cytoskeleton
D. Centrioles

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The cytoskeleton is the correct answer. It provides structural support to the cell, helps maintain its shape, and enables it to adapt to different environments. Microfilaments are part of the cytoskeleton, but they alone do not encompass the entire cytoskeleton's functions. Cytoplasm is the fluid inside the cell where organelles are suspended and is not directly responsible for maintaining cell shape. Centrioles are involved in cell division and do not primarily contribute to maintaining the cell's shape and adaptation.