proteins are polymers of 20 molecules called

HESI RN

Biology Test

1. Proteins are polymers of 20 molecules called:

A. Amino acids
B. Phospholipids
C. Carbohydrates
D. Fatty acids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Proteins are indeed polymers made up of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, where each protein has a unique sequence of amino acids that determines its structure and function. Phospholipids, carbohydrates, and fatty acids are not molecules that make up proteins. Phospholipids are the main components of cell membranes, carbohydrates are sugars used for energy and structural purposes, and fatty acids are building blocks of lipids.

2. Water is held together by which of the following bonds?

A. Electrostatic attraction
B. Van der Waals forces
C. Hydrogen
D. Oxygen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Water molecules are held together by hydrogen bonds, which are weak bonds formed between the slightly positive hydrogen atom of one water molecule and the slightly negative oxygen atom of another. Choice A, electrostatic attraction, is a general term for the attraction between opposite charges but does not specifically describe the bonds in water. Choice B, Van der Waals forces, are weak intermolecular forces that arise from temporary fluctuations in electron distribution, not the primary bonds in water. Choice D, oxygen, is incorrect as oxygen is part of the water molecule but not the bond holding water molecules together.

3. What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids?

A. There is no difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids.
B. Saturated fatty acids contain double bonds, unlike unsaturated fatty acids.
C. Saturated fatty acids often contain two or more pairs of double bonds, unlike unsaturated fatty acids.
D. Saturated fatty acids contain no double bonds, unlike unsaturated fatty acids.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Saturated fatty acids contain no double bonds between the carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chains, making them more solid at room temperature. Choice A is incorrect because there is a significant difference between saturated and unsaturated fatty acids. Choice B is incorrect as it inaccurately states that saturated fatty acids contain double bonds, which is a property of unsaturated fatty acids. Choice C is also incorrect as saturated fatty acids do not contain double bonds, let alone two or more pairs of double bonds.

4. The cellular membrane contributes to all except which of the following?

A. Cell energy production
B. Cell permeability
C. Cell communication
D. Cell protection

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cellular membrane is involved in regulating cell permeability, communication, and protection. However, it is not directly involved in energy production. Choice A is the correct answer because the cellular membrane does not produce energy; instead, it regulates the passage of molecules in and out of the cell. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the cell membrane plays key roles in controlling what enters and exits the cell, facilitating communication between cells, and providing structural support and protection to the cell.

5. What is the primary method of asexual reproduction used by most bacteria?

A. Meiosis
B. Mitosis
C. Binary fission
D. Interphase

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Binary fission. This is the main process through which most bacteria reproduce asexually. During binary fission, a single cell divides into two identical cells, each containing a copy of the genetic material. Choices A and B, meiosis and mitosis, are processes involved in sexual reproduction and are not used by bacteria for asexual reproduction. Choice D, interphase, is a stage of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division and is not a method of reproduction.