Nursing Elites

1. What is the basic unit of communication in the nervous system?

• A. Neuron
• B. Astrocyte
• C. Neurotransmitter
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A neuron is the basic unit of communication in the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells responsible for transmitting information through electrical and chemical signals. Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that provide support and nourishment to neurons but do not participate in signal transmission. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that facilitate signal transmission between neurons, and synapses are the specific junctions where these signals are transmitted. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Neuron' as it is the primary cell involved in transmitting information in the nervous system.

2. What is the function of a cell wall?

• A. To provide structural support for the cell
• B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
• C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
• D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. Its main function is to provide structural support and protection for the cell, helping maintain the cell's shape and preventing it from bursting or collapsing. The cell wall also allows for the passage of water, ions, and other molecules in and out of the cell. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because those functions are typically carried out by other cellular structures. Option B is performed by the cell membrane, option C by ribosomes, and option D by the nucleus, which stores genetic material.

3. Which of the following functions is not controlled by the autonomic nervous system?

• A. Digestion
• B. Walking
• C. Heartbeat
• D. Temperature regulation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Walking. Walking is not directly controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Walking is a voluntary action governed by the somatic nervous system, which controls voluntary skeletal muscle movement. The autonomic nervous system, on the other hand, regulates functions that are involuntary, such as digestion, heartbeat, and temperature regulation. Choices A, C, and D are all functions controlled by the autonomic nervous system. Digestion involves processes like peristalsis and secretion of digestive enzymes, heartbeat is regulated by the autonomic nervous system to maintain blood pressure and circulation, and temperature regulation includes responses like sweating or shivering to maintain body temperature within a narrow range.

4. Which level of protein structure is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone?

• A. Primary
• B. Secondary
• C. Tertiary
• D. Quaternary

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Secondary. The secondary structure of a protein is defined by the folding and coiling of the polypeptide backbone into structures like alpha helices and beta sheets. Secondary structure primarily involves interactions such as hydrogen bonding within the backbone. This level of protein structure is distinct from primary structure (A) which refers to the linear sequence of amino acids, tertiary structure (C) which involves the overall 3D arrangement of a single polypeptide chain, and quaternary structure (D) which pertains to the interaction between multiple polypeptide chains in a protein complex.

5. Which of the following describes a vector quantity?

• A. Speed
• B. Distance
• C. Mass
• D. Velocity

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Velocity is a vector quantity as it encompasses both magnitude (speed) and direction. When describing the motion of an object, it is crucial to consider both aspects. Speed (option A) is a scalar quantity, representing only the magnitude of motion without indicating direction. Distance (option B) is also a scalar quantity, indicating the extent of an object's motion without considering direction. Mass (option C) is a scalar quantity, measuring the amount of matter in an object and not involving direction.

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