Nursing Elites

1. Which gland, often referred to as the 'master gland' of the endocrine system and located at the base of the brain, secretes various hormones that control other glands?

• A. Thyroid gland
• B. Pituitary gland
• C. Adrenal gland
• D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pituitary gland is correctly known as the 'master gland' of the endocrine system. It is situated at the base of the brain and plays a crucial role in secreting a variety of hormones that regulate the functions of other endocrine glands in the body. These hormones control growth, metabolism, reproduction, and various other essential bodily functions. The other choices, thyroid gland, adrenal gland, and pancreas, are incorrect as they do not serve as the 'master gland' of the endocrine system nor are located at the base of the brain like the pituitary gland.

2. What are the three layers of the skin?

• A. Epidermis, dermis, subdermis
• B. Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis
• C. Dermis, subdermis, hypodermis
• D. Epidermis, dermis, adipose layer

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Epidermis, dermis, hypodermis. The three layers of the skin are the epidermis (outer layer), dermis (middle layer), and hypodermis (inner layer of fat and connective tissue). The hypodermis is also known as the subcutaneous tissue and is primarily composed of adipose (fat) tissue, providing insulation and padding to the body. Choice A is incorrect as 'subdermis' is not a recognized layer of the skin. Choice C is incorrect as 'dermis' is the middle layer, not the outer layer. Choice D is incorrect as the layer below the dermis is the hypodermis, not specifically an 'adipose layer.'

3. Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of lactose intolerance?

• A. Gas
• B. Bloating
• C. Diarrhea
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Gas: Gas is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. When lactose is not properly digested, it can ferment in the colon, leading to the production of gas. B) Bloating: Bloating is another common symptom of lactose intolerance. The buildup of gas in the digestive system can cause bloating and discomfort. C) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. When lactose is not broken down in the small intestine, it can draw excess water into the colon, resulting in diarrhea. D) Nausea: Nausea is not a common symptom of lactose intolerance. While some individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort or cramps, nausea is not typically associated with lactose intolerance.

4. What describes the change in direction of light when it passes through different mediums, such as air and water?

• A. Diffraction
• B. Reflection
• C. Refraction
• D. Dispersion

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Refraction is the change in direction of light as it moves from one medium to another, such as air to water or glass. This change occurs due to variations in the speed of light in each medium, causing the light rays to bend. When light passes through different mediums, it changes its path, a phenomenon known as refraction. Choice A, Diffraction, refers to the bending of waves around obstacles and the spreading of waves when passing through small openings, not the change in direction of light when moving between mediums. Choice B, Reflection, is the bouncing back of light rays from a surface into the same medium, not the change in direction when transitioning between different mediums. Choice D, Dispersion, involves the separation of light into its constituent colors based on their different wavelengths, not the change in direction of light when passing through different mediums.

5. Why is biodiversity important for healthy ecosystems?

• A. Increases stability and resilience to disturbances
• B. Provides stability and resilience to disturbances
• C. Slows down nutrient cycling
• D. Reduces the number of decomposers

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in a particular area. A diverse ecosystem is better able to withstand and recover from disturbances such as natural disasters, climate change, or human impacts. This is because different species play unique roles in the ecosystem, and a higher level of biodiversity means there are more species available to fulfill these roles. For example, if one species is negatively affected by a disturbance, other species may be able to compensate for its loss, maintaining the overall functioning of the ecosystem. Therefore, biodiversity provides stability and resilience to disturbances, making ecosystems healthier and more sustainable. Choice A is incorrect because biodiversity doesn't increase competition for resources but rather helps in maintaining a balance within the ecosystem. Choice C is incorrect as biodiversity does not slow down nutrient cycling; in fact, it enhances nutrient cycling by ensuring a variety of species involved in the process. Choice D is incorrect as biodiversity does not reduce the number of decomposers but instead supports a diverse community of decomposers that are essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems.

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