Nursing Elites

1. Which type of epithelium lines the inner surface of the oral cavity, providing a barrier against external insults?

• A. Simple squamous epithelium
• B. Stratified squamous epithelium
• C. Simple columnar epithelium
• D. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The oral cavity is constantly exposed to mechanical stress and potential injury from food particles and other external factors. To protect against these insults, a strong and resilient epithelium is needed. Stratified squamous epithelium is the best choice for lining the oral cavity due to its multiple layers of cells. This type of epithelium provides a robust barrier that can withstand abrasion and protect the underlying tissues. Simple squamous epithelium (choice A) is too thin and not suitable for a protective function. Simple columnar epithelium (choice C) is more suited for absorption and secretion functions, not protection against mechanical stress. Pseudostratified columnar epithelium (choice D) is found in respiratory passages and functions in mucociliary clearance, not in providing a protective barrier against external insults in the oral cavity.

2. What is the function of ribosomal RNA (rRNA)?

• A. Carries amino acids to the ribosomes
• B. Reads the genetic code on mRNA
• C. Forms the structural framework of ribosomes
• D. Controls the rate of protein synthesis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) plays a crucial role in forming the structural framework of ribosomes. Ribosomes are the cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis and consist of both protein and rRNA components. The primary function of rRNA is to provide the structural support necessary for ribosomes to function properly. This structural framework allows the ribosome to interact with messenger RNA (mRNA) and transfer RNA (tRNA) during translation, where genetic information encoded in mRNA is used to assemble proteins from amino acids. Therefore, rRNA's main role is in contributing to the structure and function of ribosomes, rather than directly carrying amino acids, reading the genetic code, or controlling the rate of protein synthesis. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because rRNA does not carry amino acids to the ribosomes (tRNA does this), read the genetic code (this is the role of ribosomes and tRNA), or control the rate of protein synthesis (this is regulated by various factors but not directly by rRNA).

3. Which of the following is an example of a fibrous protein?

• A. Insulin
• B. Keratin
• C. Hemoglobin
• D. Collagen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Insulin is a hormone, not a fibrous protein. It is produced in the pancreas and regulates blood sugar levels. B) Keratin is a fibrous structural protein found in hair, nails, and the outer skin layer, providing strength and protection. C) Hemoglobin is a globular protein in red blood cells responsible for oxygen transport; it is not fibrous. D) Collagen is a fibrous protein found in tendons, ligaments, and skin, offering strength and structure to connective tissues. Therefore, the correct answer is collagen, making it the main component of various connective tissues.

4. Which structure in the female reproductive system is responsible for producing eggs (ova)?

• A. Fallopian tubes
• B. Ovaries
• C. Uterus
• D. Vagina

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the ovaries. Ovaries are the primary reproductive organs in females responsible for producing eggs (ova) through a process known as oogenesis. Ova are released from the ovaries during ovulation and can be fertilized by sperm in the fallopian tubes. The uterus is where a fertilized egg implants and develops into a fetus, while the vagina serves as the birth canal and a site for sexual intercourse. Fallopian tubes are responsible for transporting eggs from the ovaries to the uterus and are the site where fertilization typically occurs. Therefore, while important for the reproductive process, the fallopian tubes do not produce eggs.

5. What is the purpose of a catalyst?

• A. To increase a reaction rate by increasing the activation energy
• B. To increase a reaction rate by increasing the temperature
• C. To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the activation energy
• D. To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The purpose of a catalyst is to increase a reaction's rate by decreasing the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This allows the reaction to proceed more quickly without being consumed in the process. The catalyst provides an alternate mechanism with a lower activation energy, making it easier for the reactants to convert into products. Choice A is incorrect because a catalyst lowers, not increases, the activation energy. Choice B is incorrect because a catalyst does not affect the temperature directly but provides an alternative pathway for the reaction to occur more easily. Choice D is incorrect because a catalyst does not lower the temperature but facilitates the reaction by lowering the activation energy barrier. Therefore, the correct answer is C, 'To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the activation energy.'

Similar Questions