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. What is a characteristic property of acids?

• A. Bitter taste
• B. Sour taste
• C. Slippery feel
• D. Sweet taste

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct characteristic property of acids is a sour taste. Acids release hydrogen ions when dissolved in water, giving them a sour taste. Bitter taste is a property associated with bases, not acids. Slippery feel is a characteristic property of bases, due to their soap-like nature. Sweet taste does not accurately describe the characteristic property of acids, as they are known for their sour taste.

3. Which of the following is a function of the kidneys?

• A. To produce digestive enzymes
• B. To filter waste from the blood
• C. To produce white blood cells
• D. To produce red blood cells

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To filter waste from the blood.' The kidneys are vital organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, regulating fluid and electrolyte balance, and producing urine. Choice A is incorrect because the production of digestive enzymes primarily occurs in the pancreas and salivary glands. Choice C is incorrect as the production of white blood cells mainly takes place in the bone marrow and lymphatic system. Choice D is incorrect as the production of red blood cells occurs in the bone marrow.

4. Which type of reaction undergoes hydrolysis?

• A. Anabolism
• B. Catabolism
• C. Exothermic
• D. Endothermic

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Catabolism.' Catabolic reactions involve the breakdown of larger molecules into smaller ones, often through hydrolysis, where water is added to break chemical bonds. This process is essential for the degradation of complex molecules and the release of energy stored in chemical bonds. Choice A, 'Anabolism,' is incorrect as anabolism involves the synthesis of complex molecules from simpler ones. Choices C and D, 'Exothermic' and 'Endothermic,' refer to the heat energy exchange during a reaction and are not directly related to the process of hydrolysis.

5. What term describes a series of muscle contractions that transports food down the digestive tract in a wave-like fashion?

• A. digestion
• B. deglutition
• C. defecation
• D. peristalsis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term for the series of muscle contractions that move food down the digestive tract in a wave-like manner. This process helps propel food through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption. Digestion (Choice A) refers to the breakdown of food into smaller components, deglutition (Choice B) is the act of swallowing, and defecation (Choice C) is the elimination of waste from the body. Therefore, peristalsis is the most appropriate term to describe the described muscle contractions in the digestive system.

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