Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is the cytoplasmic organelle that contains fluid-filled tubules for carrying and transporting substances?

• A. Endoplasmic reticulum
• B. Golgi apparatus
• C. Mitochondria
• D. Nucleus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum is the correct answer. It is the cytoplasmic organelle that contains fluid-filled tubules responsible for carrying and transporting substances within the cell. The endoplasmic reticulum plays a crucial role in protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, and detoxification processes. The Golgi apparatus, although important in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion or for use within the cell, does not primarily contain fluid-filled tubules for carrying and transporting substances. Mitochondria are responsible for generating ATP through cellular respiration, not for carrying and transporting substances. The nucleus contains the cell's genetic material and is involved in regulating cellular activities but does not contain fluid-filled tubules for transportation.

2. What is the smallest unit that can encode for a trait?

• A. A codon
• B. A gene
• C. A nucleotide
• D. A chromosome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B - a gene. Genes are the smallest units that can encode for a trait as they contain the specific instructions for producing a particular characteristic or protein. While codons are sequences of nucleotides that code for specific amino acids in a protein, they are not the smallest unit that encodes for a trait. Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, and chromosomes are made up of DNA and proteins, containing many genes.

3. Which types of molecules can move through a cell membrane by passive transport?

• A. Complex sugars
• B. Non-lipid soluble molecules
• C. Oxygen
• D. Molecules moving from areas of low concentration to areas of high concentration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Oxygen. Small, non-polar molecules like oxygen can easily pass through the cell membrane by passive transport as they move down their concentration gradient without the need for energy input. Complex sugars (choice A) are typically too large to pass through the membrane by passive transport. Non-lipid soluble molecules (choice B) may require active transport mechanisms. Choice D describes active transport, where molecules move against their concentration gradient, requiring energy input.

4. What phenomenon is responsible for the mirage effect seen in deserts?

• A. Diffraction
• B. Refraction
• C. Interference
• D. Polarization

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another of different density. In deserts, the temperature gradient causes light to bend, creating the mirage effect where distant objects appear distorted or displaced. Diffraction refers to the bending of light around obstacles or apertures, not the cause of mirages. Interference involves the superposition of two or more waves, which is not the mechanism behind mirages. Polarization refers to the orientation of light waves in a specific plane and is not responsible for the mirage effect in deserts. Therefore, the correct answer is refraction.

5. What is the main function of the epiglottis?

• A. To store bile
• B. To absorb nutrients
• C. To prevent food from entering the trachea
• D. To produce digestive enzymes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action helps direct food and liquids into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach for digestion, while also protecting the respiratory system from potential blockages that could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the epiglottis is not involved in storing bile, absorbing nutrients, or producing digestive enzymes. Understanding the role of the epiglottis in the swallowing process is crucial for maintaining proper respiratory and digestive functions.

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