Nursing Elites

1. The fossil record shows that dinosaurs with feathers existed millions of years before birds. This is evidence for

• A. Convergent evolution (unrelated organisms evolving similar traits)
• B. Divergent evolution (related organisms evolving different traits)
• C. Coevolution (two species influencing each other's evolution)
• D. The extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The fossil record indicates that dinosaurs had feathers before birds, suggesting convergent evolution. Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated organisms independently evolve similar traits to adapt to similar environmental pressures. In this case, both dinosaurs and birds developed feathers for flight or insulation purposes, even though they are not closely related. This evidence supports the concept of convergent evolution rather than divergent evolution, coevolution, or the extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as it best explains the scenario where dinosaurs with feathers existed before birds, showcasing the concept of unrelated organisms evolving similar traits independently.

2. Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is an example of:

• A. Convergent evolution
• B. Divergent evolution
• C. Microevolution
• D. Macroevolution

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Antibiotic resistance in bacteria is a classic example of microevolution (option C). Microevolution refers to changes in allele frequencies within a population over a relatively short period of time. In the case of antibiotic resistance, bacteria evolve resistance to antibiotics through the natural selection of pre-existing resistant strains. This process does not involve the formation of new species or higher taxonomic groups, which are associated with macroevolution (option D). Convergent evolution (option A) involves different species independently evolving similar traits in response to similar environmental pressures, which is not the case with antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Divergent evolution (option B) refers to related species becoming more dissimilar over time, which also does not apply to the scenario of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.

3. Which state of matter has particles that are highly organized in a fixed pattern and vibrate in place?

• A. Solid
• B. Liquid
• C. Gas
• D. Plasma

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Solid.' Solids have particles that are tightly packed together in a fixed pattern, allowing them to vibrate in place. This highly organized structure gives solids a definite shape and volume. In contrast, liquids have particles that are close together but can move past each other, enabling them to flow and take the shape of their container. Gases have particles that are far apart and move freely in all directions, filling the entire space available to them. Plasmas, on the other hand, have highly energized particles that do not have a fixed pattern and are not confined by a definite volume or shape.

4. Where is the abdominopelvic cavity in relation to the thoracic cavity?

• A. Dorsal
• B. Ventral
• C. Superior
• D. Inferior

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The abdominopelvic cavity is located inferior to the thoracic cavity. The thoracic cavity contains organs like the heart and lungs, while the abdominopelvic cavity includes the abdomen and pelvis regions. Therefore, the correct answer is D, as the abdominopelvic cavity is positioned below (inferior to) the thoracic cavity. Choice A (Dorsal) is incorrect as it refers to the backside of the body. Choice B (Ventral) is incorrect as it refers to the front side of the body. Choice C (Superior) is incorrect as it indicates a position above the thoracic cavity, which is not the case.

5. Which of the following is NOT a primary producer in an ecosystem?

• A. Grass
• B. Deer
• C. Algae
• D. Mushroom

Correct answer: B

Rationale: - A) Grass: Grass is a primary producer because it can photosynthesize and convert sunlight into energy, making it the base of the food chain. - B) Deer: Deer are consumers that feed on primary producers like grass, so they are not primary producers themselves. - C) Algae: Algae are primary producers that can photosynthesize and produce energy from sunlight. - D) Mushroom: Mushrooms are decomposers that break down organic matter, so they are not primary producers.

Similar Questions