Nursing Elites

1. Which process is characterized by nuclear fission?

• A. A heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and releasing energy
• B. The fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element
• C. A lighter element emitting an alpha particle through radioactive decay
• D. An electron being absorbed by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nuclear fission is the process where a heavy nucleus, like uranium-235, captures a neutron, leading to its division into two lighter nuclei. This process releases a substantial amount of energy in the form of heat and gamma rays. It is utilized in nuclear power plants and atomic bombs due to its capacity to produce significant energy. Choices B, C, and D describe different nuclear processes: fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element, emission of alpha particles from a lighter element through radioactive decay, and absorption of an electron by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray, respectively. These processes are distinct from nuclear fission and do not involve the splitting of heavy nuclei into lighter ones.

2. An atom has 17 protons, 20 neutrons, and 17 electrons. What is its mass, in amu?

• A. 17
• B. 20
• C. 37
• D. 54

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The atomic mass of an atom is the sum of the protons and neutrons in its nucleus. In this case, the atom has 17 protons and 20 neutrons, totaling 37 particles in the nucleus. Electrons are not considered in the atomic mass calculation as their mass is negligible compared to protons and neutrons. Therefore, the mass of the atom in atomic mass units (amu) is 37.

3. During inhalation, which muscle contracts to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs?

• A. Diaphragm
• B. Intercostal muscles
• C. Abdominal muscles
• D. Pectoral muscles

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for inhalation. When it contracts, it moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and creating a pressure gradient that allows air to flow into the lungs. While the intercostal muscles also play a role in expanding the chest cavity during inhalation, the diaphragm is the main muscle involved in this process. Abdominal muscles and pectoral muscles are not directly involved in the process of inhalation.

4. Which of the following terms means toward the front of the body?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Anterior. The term 'anterior' specifically refers to the front of the body. In anatomical terms, anterior is the opposite of posterior, which means toward the back of the body. Superior and inferior, choices A and C, respectively, refer to top and bottom directions, not front and back. Therefore, 'Anterior' is the most appropriate term for describing a position toward the front of the body.

5. What is the function of the sinuses?

• A. To trap many airborne pathogens
• B. To direct air down the trachea rather than the esophagus
• C. To warm, humidify, and filter air
• D. To sweep away pathogens and direct them toward the top of the trachea

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct function of the sinuses is to warm, humidify, and filter the air we breathe. Sinuses play a crucial role in preparing the air for the respiratory system by adding moisture, warmth, and filtering out particles. Choice A is incorrect because while sinuses can help filter some particles, their primary function is not to trap pathogens. Choice B is incorrect as the sinuses do not control the direction of air down the trachea; this is regulated by the epiglottis and vocal cords. Choice D is incorrect as sinuses do not sweep pathogens away or direct them towards the trachea; instead, they condition the air for respiration.

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