rna is made from dna through a process called

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 Practice Exam

1. RNA is made from DNA through a process called ___________.

A. transcription
B. synthesis
C. translation
D. replication

Correct answer: A

Rationale: RNA is made from DNA through a process called transcription. During transcription, an enzyme called RNA polymerase reads the DNA template and synthesizes a complementary RNA molecule. This process is essential for gene expression and allows the information encoded in DNA to be converted into functional RNA molecules. Choice B, 'synthesis,' is incorrect as it is a general term and does not specifically describe the process of RNA formation from DNA. Choice C, 'translation,' is incorrect as it refers to the process where the mRNA is used to assemble amino acids during protein synthesis, not the conversion of DNA to RNA. Choice D, 'replication,' is incorrect as it is the process of making an identical copy of DNA, not converting DNA into RNA.

2. A cell that does not contain membrane-bound organelles or a defined nucleus would be classified as:

A. eukaryotic
B. embryonic
C. prokaryotic
D. symbiotic

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A cell that does not contain membrane-bound organelles or a defined nucleus is classified as prokaryotic. Prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus, and their genetic material is typically found in a region called the nucleoid. Examples of prokaryotic organisms include bacteria and archaea. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, contain membrane-bound organelles and a true nucleus, distinguishing them from prokaryotic cells. Embryonic and symbiotic classifications are not directly related to the presence of organelles or a nucleus in cells.

3. The fur color in a population of dogs is controlled by two alleles: black (B) and tan (b). The black allele exhibits complete dominance. If the phenotype of the dog is tan fur, what is its genotype?

A. BB
B. Bb
C. bb
D. Not enough information

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "bb." Since tan fur is the recessive trait controlled by the allele 'b,' the only possible genotype for a dog with tan fur is 'bb.' If a dog had the genotype 'BB' or 'Bb,' the dominant trait (black fur) would be expressed, not tan fur. Choice D, 'Not enough information,' is incorrect because based on the information provided, we can deduce the genotype of a dog with tan fur.

4. How should a researcher test the hypothesis that radiation from cell phones is significant enough to raise the temperature of water in a test tube?

A. Dial a cell phone that rests beside a test tube of water, let it ring for two minutes, and record the temperature of the water before and after the two-minute interval.
B. Dial a cell phone that rests beside a test tube of water; let it ring for two, three, and four minutes; and record the temperature of the water before and after each interval.
C. Use three different brands of cell phone; dial each as it rests beside its own test tube of water, let it ring for two minutes, and record the temperature of the water before and after the two-minute interval.
D. Use three different brands of cell phone, dial each and let one ring for two minutes, one for three minutes, and one for four minutes; record the temperature of the water before and after each interval.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To test the hypothesis that radiation from cell phones raises the temperature of water in a test tube, the most appropriate method is to dial a cell phone next to a test tube of water, let it ring for a consistent two-minute interval, and record the temperature before and after. Choice A is correct because it provides a controlled approach to isolate the impact of the phone's radiation on the water temperature. Choices B, C, and D introduce additional variables that could confound the results. Choice B varies the duration of exposure, making it difficult to attribute temperature changes specifically to the radiation. Choice C introduces the factor of different cell phone brands, which could introduce variability not related to radiation. Choice D also varies exposure times and introduces the factor of multiple phone brands, making it harder to determine the direct impact of cell phone radiation on water temperature. Therefore, choice A is the most suitable option for this experiment.

5. Why does cytokinesis happen?

A. DNA can duplicate
B. Organelles can convert energy
C. Bacteria can be killed
D. Daughter cells can divide

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cytokinesis happens at the end of mitosis to physically separate the newly formed daughter cells. This allows the cell to divide into two separate daughter cells, each containing a complete set of genetic material (DNA) and organelles. The purpose of cytokinesis is to ensure that each daughter cell receives the necessary components to function independently. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because cytokinesis does not directly involve DNA duplication, organelles converting energy, or killing bacteria.