the fur color in a population of dogs is controlled by two alleles black b and tan b the black allele exhibits complete dominance if the phenotype of

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 Practice Test

1. The fur color in a population of dogs is controlled by two alleles: black (B) and tan (b). The black allele exhibits complete dominance. If the phenotype of the dog is tan fur, what is its genotype?

A. BB
B. Bb
C. bb
D. Not enough information

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "bb." Since tan fur is the recessive trait controlled by the allele 'b,' the only possible genotype for a dog with tan fur is 'bb.' If a dog had the genotype 'BB' or 'Bb,' the dominant trait (black fur) would be expressed, not tan fur. Choice D, 'Not enough information,' is incorrect because based on the information provided, we can deduce the genotype of a dog with tan fur.

2. During which phase of cell division do the chromosomes replicate?

A. Prophase
B. Interphase
C. Anaphase
D. Telophase

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Chromosomes replicate during the interphase of the cell cycle. Interphase is the phase where the cell prepares for division by undergoing various activities such as growth, DNA replication, and protein synthesis. During DNA replication in interphase, each chromosome in the cell is duplicated to form two sister chromatids, which are then separated during cell division. Prophase is the phase where the chromosomes condense, and the nuclear envelope breaks down. Anaphase is the phase where sister chromatids are pulled apart towards opposite poles of the cell. Telophase is the phase where the nuclear envelope reforms, and chromosomes begin to decondense.

3. A student was asked to count birds in a given location over a 24-hour period. Which count would make their data most valid?

A. Count birds at one feeder every 6 hours.
B. Count birds at three feeders at noon and 6:00 P.M.
C. Count birds at one feeder at noon and 6:00 P.M.
D. Count birds at three feeders every 6 hours.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Counting birds at one feeder at consistent time intervals (noon and 6:00 P.M.) over a 24-hour period ensures that the data collected are evenly distributed and provide a more accurate representation of the bird population in that location throughout the day. This method allows for observations during different times of the day, capturing potential variations in bird activity and distribution. Choice A is not as effective as it lacks observations at different times of the day, potentially missing variations in bird behavior. Choice B involves multiple locations and times, which could introduce more variables and make it harder to analyze the data accurately. Choice D, counting birds at three feeders every 6 hours, may provide too frequent data points and not cover all significant time intervals for observing bird activity.

4. How should a researcher test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure?

A. Record the blood pressure of one male and one female participant before and after participating in a yoga class.
B. Divide 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure; test each participant’s blood pressure after participating in a yoga class.
C. Divide 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure; have one group watch television for an hour while the other takes a yoga class, record each participant’s blood pressure after the hour. Repeat daily for two weeks.
D. Start with 15 men and 15 women; have the men watch television for an hour while the women take a yoga class, record each participant’s blood pressure after the hour. Reverse, having the men take a yoga class while the women watch television.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Option B is the most appropriate way to test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure. By dividing 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure levels and testing each participant's blood pressure after participating in a yoga class, the researcher can effectively evaluate the impact of yoga on blood pressure. This design allows for a comparison between the two groups, helping to isolate the effects of yoga practice on blood pressure. Option A only involves one male and one female participant, which may not provide a representative sample. Option C introduces an additional variable of watching television, which could confound the results. Option D lacks consistency in the experimental design by switching the activities between men and women, making it difficult to attribute any observed changes solely to yoga practice.

5. Which of these molecules contains glucose?

A. Proteins
B. Lipids
C. Nucleic acids
D. Carbohydrates

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Glucose is a type of simple sugar and is classified as a carbohydrate. It is commonly found in various carbohydrate-containing foods such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and sugary snacks. Therefore, the molecule containing glucose would be a carbohydrate, making choice D the correct answer. Proteins (choice A) are made up of amino acids, lipids (choice B) are fats, and nucleic acids (choice C) are DNA and RNA, none of which contain glucose.