Nursing Elites

1. The dark, round structures observed within some bacterial cells are most likely:

• A. Ribosomes
• B. Flagella
• C. Endospores
• D. Capsules

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Endospores are the correct answer. Endospores are dark, round structures observed within some bacterial cells. They are highly resistant dormant structures formed by certain bacteria in response to harsh environmental conditions. Ribosomes are not dark, round structures within bacterial cells; they are responsible for protein synthesis. Flagella are long, whip-like appendages used for movement and are not dark, round structures within bacterial cells. Capsules are outer layers of polysaccharides that some bacteria produce for protection and adherence, not dark, round structures within bacterial cells.

2. What is the law that states energy can neither be created nor destroyed?

• A. Law of Conservation of Matter
• B. Law of Conservation of Energy
• C. Law of Universal Gravitation
• D. Law of Inertia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Law of Conservation of Energy. This law states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed from one form to another. The Law of Conservation of Matter (Choice A) is related to mass and the preservation of mass in a closed system, not energy. The Law of Universal Gravitation (Choice C) describes the force of attraction between objects with mass. The Law of Inertia (Choice D) states that an object will remain at rest or in uniform motion unless acted upon by an external force.

3. Which of the following is directly transcribed from DNA and represents the first step in protein synthesis?

• A. siRNA
• B. rRNA
• C. mRNA
• D. tRNA

Correct answer: C

Rationale: mRNA (messenger RNA) is directly transcribed from DNA in the nucleus during the process of transcription. It serves as a template for protein synthesis during translation in the cytoplasm. mRNA carries genetic information from the DNA to the ribosomes, where it determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein. Thus, mRNA represents the first step in protein synthesis as it carries the code from the DNA to be translated into a protein. Choice A, siRNA (small interfering RNA), is involved in post-transcriptional gene silencing and does not play a role in protein synthesis. Choice B, rRNA (ribosomal RNA), is a component of the ribosome and plays a structural and functional role in protein synthesis but is not directly transcribed from DNA. Choice D, tRNA (transfer RNA), is responsible for bringing amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis but is not directly transcribed from DNA.

4. What is the function of the lymphatic system?

• A. To transport oxygen
• B. To filter waste from the blood
• C. To produce red blood cells
• D. To regulate body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To filter waste from the blood.' The lymphatic system is responsible for draining excess fluid from tissues, absorbing fats from the digestive system, and filtering out harmful substances and waste products from the blood. It also plays a crucial role in the body's immune defense by transporting white blood cells and antibodies to fight off infections. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen, producing red blood cells, and regulating body temperature are functions performed by other systems in the body, such as the respiratory system, bone marrow, and thermoregulatory mechanisms, respectively.

5. What is the main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb?

• A. Reactors use enriched uranium, while bombs use natural uranium.
• B. Reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions.
• C. Reactors generate electricity, while bombs cause explosions.
• D. Reactors use moderators, while bombs don't.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main difference between a nuclear reactor and a nuclear bomb is that reactors have controlled chain reactions, while bombs have uncontrolled chain reactions. Nuclear reactors are designed to sustain a controlled nuclear reaction to generate electricity. In contrast, nuclear bombs are designed to release a massive amount of energy in an uncontrolled chain reaction, resulting in an explosion. Choice A is incorrect because both reactors and bombs can use enriched uranium. Choice C is incorrect as nuclear reactors also generate electricity, not just bombs. Choice D is incorrect because both reactors and bombs may or may not use moderators, but the key distinction lies in the control of the chain reaction.

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