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. How does the respiratory system facilitate gas exchange between air and blood?

• A. Diffusion
• B. Exhalation
• C. Inspiration
• D. Ventilation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Diffusion.' Diffusion is the process by which gases are exchanged between air in the alveoli and blood in the capillaries. Oxygen moves from the alveoli into the blood, while carbon dioxide moves from the blood into the alveoli through diffusion. Exhalation is the process of expelling air from the lungs, inspiration is the process of inhaling air into the lungs, and ventilation refers to the overall movement of air in and out of the lungs. While these processes are essential for the respiratory system to function, they are not directly responsible for the gas exchange between air and blood, which is primarily achieved through diffusion.

3. Which hormone, produced by the adrenal glands, is essential for regulating electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, in the body?

• A. Aldosterone
• B. Epinephrine
• C. Cortisol
• D. Insulin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance, specifically by regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. Its primary function involves acting on the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water while promoting the excretion of potassium. This process is essential for regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and electrolyte concentrations in the body. Epinephrine is associated with the fight or flight response, cortisol is a stress hormone, and insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels as produced by the pancreas. Therefore, the correct answer is Aldosterone as it directly targets electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, in the body.

4. What is the name of the bone marrow cavity in the long bones where red blood cells are produced?

• A. Periosteum
• B. Diaphysis
• C. Medullary cavity
• D. Epiphysis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The medullary cavity is the correct answer. It is the central cavity within the shafts of long bones where red bone marrow is located, responsible for the production of red blood cells. The periosteum is the outer layer of bone that provides nourishment and participates in bone repair. The diaphysis refers to the shaft of a long bone that contains yellow bone marrow. The epiphysis is the end of a long bone involved in joint articulation and contains red bone marrow in children for blood cell production.

5. If a biochemist isolates a large amount of pyruvate, which part of the cell is he working with?

• A. Chloroplasts
• B. Cytoplasm
• C. Mitochondria
• D. Nucleus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cytoplasm. Pyruvate is a product of glycolysis, a metabolic pathway that takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell. Therefore, a biochemist isolating a large amount of pyruvate would be working with the cytoplasm of the cell. Choice A, Chloroplasts, is incorrect because pyruvate is not produced in chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis. Choice C, Mitochondria, is incorrect as pyruvate is produced in the cytoplasm before entering the mitochondria for further metabolism. Choice D, Nucleus, is incorrect as the nucleus is not involved in the production or isolation of pyruvate, which is a metabolic intermediate.

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