physical factors such as temperature and ph can alter enzyme activity because they have an effect on the enzymes

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 2024

1. Physical factors such as temperature and pH can alter enzyme activity because they have an effect on the enzyme's ___________.

A. acidity
B. shape
C. chemistry
D. substrate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Physical factors such as temperature and pH can alter enzyme activity by affecting the enzyme's shape. Enzymes rely on their specific shapes to function properly and catalyze reactions. Any changes in temperature or pH can disrupt these shapes, causing the enzyme to become denatured and lose its functionality. Therefore, alterations in temperature and pH can impact enzyme activity by directly affecting their shapes. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while pH can affect acidity and chemical properties of the enzyme, and temperature can influence the enzyme-substrate interaction, the primary reason for enzyme activity alteration due to temperature and pH is the change in the enzyme's shape.

2. What happens to messenger RNA when it reaches the cytoplasm?

A. It attaches to a ribosome.
B. It unzips, exposing nitrogen bases.
C. It pairs with the DNA bases.
D. It pulls free of the DNA strand.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. When mRNA reaches the cytoplasm, it attaches to a ribosome. The ribosome functions as the site for protein synthesis through translation, where the genetic code carried by mRNA is read and translated into a specific sequence of amino acids. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because mRNA does not unzip, expose nitrogen bases, pair with DNA bases, or pull free of the DNA strand in the cytoplasm. The primary function of mRNA in the cytoplasm is to serve as a template for protein synthesis by binding to ribosomes.

3. A student was asked to count birds in a given location over a 24-hour period. Which count would make their data most valid?

A. Count birds at one feeder every 6 hours.
B. Count birds at three feeders at noon and 6:00 P.M.
C. Count birds at one feeder at noon and 6:00 P.M.
D. Count birds at three feeders every 6 hours.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Counting birds at one feeder at consistent time intervals (noon and 6:00 P.M.) over a 24-hour period ensures that the data collected are evenly distributed and provide a more accurate representation of the bird population in that location throughout the day. This method allows for observations during different times of the day, capturing potential variations in bird activity and distribution. Choice A is not as effective as it lacks observations at different times of the day, potentially missing variations in bird behavior. Choice B involves multiple locations and times, which could introduce more variables and make it harder to analyze the data accurately. Choice D, counting birds at three feeders every 6 hours, may provide too frequent data points and not cover all significant time intervals for observing bird activity.

4. Which of the following is the best example of a hypothesis?

A. Dogs like treats
B. Red is the best color
C. If I eat 100 donuts, then I will feel sick
D. If a plant is exposed to red light, then it will show less growth than natural light

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Option D is the best example of a hypothesis because it presents a clear cause-and-effect relationship that can be tested through experimentation. It follows the format of 'If [cause], then [effect]' which is characteristic of a hypothesis in scientific research. The statement is specific, testable, and does not rely on personal opinions or biases, making it a strong and valid hypothesis. Choices A, B, and C do not follow the structure of a hypothesis as they lack the cause-and-effect relationship that can be tested through experimentation. They are more like statements or opinions rather than hypotheses.

5. What is the fundamental unit of life?

A. Atom
B. Cell
C. Tissue
D. Organ

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Cell.' Cells are indeed the fundamental unit of life as they are responsible for all living functions, including growth, reproduction, and maintaining homeostasis. While atoms are the basic building blocks of matter, cells are the smallest structural and functional unit of living organisms. Choices C and D, tissue and organ respectively, are composed of multiple cells working together and are not considered the basic unit of life.