Nursing Elites

1. What is the composition of the cellular membrane?

• A. A bilayer of phospholipid molecules
• B. A single layer of phospholipid molecules
• C. Proteins that act as transport highways
• D. Carbohydrates

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cellular membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which consists of two layers of phospholipid molecules. These molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, creating a barrier that separates the internal cellular environment from the external surroundings. While proteins are embedded within this bilayer and act as transport channels, receptors, and structural support, carbohydrates are found on the outer surface of the membrane for cell recognition and signaling purposes. Therefore, the correct answer is a bilayer of phospholipid molecules.

2. Phagocytes in the immune system are responsible for the biological action of which of the following?

• A. Secreting
• B. Consuming
• C. Altering
• D. Building

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Consuming. Phagocytes are cells that engulf and digest pathogens, dead cells, and other harmful particles, playing a crucial role in the immune system's defense. Phagocytes do not secrete substances, alter particles, or build structures; their primary function is to consume and eliminate harmful entities.

3. What is the most significant contributor to cellular function?

• A. Proteins
• B. Phospholipids
• C. Carbohydrates
• D. Fatty acids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Proteins. Proteins are the most significant contributor to cellular function as they play crucial roles in almost all biological processes. They act as enzymes that catalyze reactions, are involved in cell signaling pathways, and provide structural support to cells. Phospholipids (Choice B), while important for cell membrane structure, do not have the same diverse functions as proteins in cellular processes. Carbohydrates (Choice C) primarily serve as an energy source and structural components but are not as versatile in cellular functions as proteins. Fatty acids (Choice D) are essential components of cell membranes and energy storage molecules but do not have the same broad range of functions as proteins in cellular processes.

4. The liver is an organ responsible for detoxifying the body of many harmful substances. You might expect the liver to contain a high amount of which of the following?

• A. Rough endoplasmic reticulum
• B. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
• C. Mitochondria
• D. Lysosomes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The liver contains a high amount of smooth endoplasmic reticulum because it plays a significant role in detoxification processes, such as the synthesis of detoxifying enzymes and lipids. Choice A (Rough endoplasmic reticulum) is incorrect because the rough endoplasmic reticulum is more involved in protein synthesis and processing. Choice C (Mitochondria) is incorrect as mitochondria are primarily responsible for energy production. Choice D (Lysosomes) is incorrect because lysosomes are organelles involved in intracellular digestion and waste removal, not specifically related to detoxification.

5. Prophase is the first stage of mitosis. Which of the following best describes chromosomes during this stage?

• A. They are gathered on either side of the separating cell
• B. They are all aligned along the metaphase plate
• C. They are attached to the spindle
• D. They are visibly separate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible as distinct structures under a microscope. Choice A is incorrect as chromosomes are not gathered on either side of the separating cell during prophase. Choice B is incorrect because chromosomes align along the metaphase plate during the subsequent stage, metaphase. Choice C is incorrect as chromosomes become attached to the spindle fibers during prometaphase, the stage following prophase.

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