the defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What determines the defining characteristic of an element?

A. Neutrons in its nucleus
B. Electrons surrounding the nucleus
C. Protons in its nucleus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of protons in its nucleus, which is referred to as the atomic number. The number of protons uniquely identifies an element. The correct answer is choice C because the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom defines its elemental identity, as different elements have a unique number of protons. Neutrons and electrons do play essential roles in the atom, but they do not determine the defining characteristic of an element. Neutrons contribute to the stability of the nucleus and isotopes of an element, while electrons are involved in chemical bonding and the reactivity of an atom.

2. In a single displacement reaction, one element takes the place of another element in a compound. Which of the following is an example?

A. 2H2 + O2 -> 2H2O
B. Zn + 2HCl -> ZnCl2 + H2
C. CaCO3 -> CaO + CO2
D. CH4 + 2O2 -> CO2 + 2H2O

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Option B demonstrates a single displacement reaction where zinc (Zn) displaces hydrogen (H) in hydrochloric acid (HCl) to produce zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and hydrogen gas (H2). This reaction exemplifies the concept of one element (Zn) replacing another element (H) in a compound (HCl), which is characteristic of single displacement reactions. Choices A, C, and D do not involve a single element displacing another in a compound, making them incorrect. In choice A, hydrogen and oxygen combine to form water, which is not a single displacement reaction. In choice C, calcium carbonate decomposes into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, not involving displacement of elements. In choice D, methane reacts with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water, which is a combustion reaction, not a single displacement reaction.

3. Which of the following is NOT a function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

A. Synthesis of lipids (fats)
B. Transport of materials within the cell
C. Detoxification of harmful substances
D. Breakdown of cellular waste products

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is not involved in the breakdown of cellular waste products; this function is primarily carried out by lysosomes. The ER is responsible for the synthesis of lipids (fats), transport of materials within the cell, and detoxification of harmful substances. Lysosomes are the organelles responsible for breaking down cellular waste products through processes like autophagy. Therefore, option D is the correct answer as it does not align with the known functions of the endoplasmic reticulum.

4. Which of the following describes an experiment?

A. The final math grades for a group of students passing through each year of elementary school are examined.
B. The health trends of smokers in a small random sample are examined.
C. Citizens in a local community are surveyed to determine concerns related to the next election.
D. The effects of a new drug are tested on a group of participants.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Option D describes an experiment because it involves testing the effects of a new drug on a group of participants. In an experiment, researchers intentionally manipulate an independent variable (in this case, the new drug) to observe its effects on a dependent variable (the participants' health outcomes). This method allows for establishing cause-and-effect relationships between variables, which is a key characteristic of experimental research design. Choices A, B, and C do not represent experiments. Choice A involves observational analysis of math grades, choice B involves observational analysis of health trends, and choice C involves a survey, none of which involve manipulating variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.

5. Which structure of the respiratory system bifurcates into the primary bronchi?

A. Trachea
B. Alveoli
C. Bronchioles
D. Larynx

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The trachea is the structure that bifurcates into the primary bronchi. The trachea is a tube that carries air to and from the lungs. It divides into the left and right primary bronchi at a specific point called the carina, which then further divide into secondary and tertiary bronchi, leading to the bronchioles. The alveoli are the tiny air sacs at the end of the bronchioles where gas exchange occurs, not the structure that bifurcates into the primary bronchi. Bronchioles are smaller airway branches that come after the bronchi but do not bifurcate into them. The larynx, also known as the voice box, is located above the trachea and is responsible for sound production, not the bifurcation into primary bronchi. Therefore, the correct answer is the trachea.