the nucleus is important in a cell because
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

1. Why is the nucleus important in a cell?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The nucleus is important in a cell because it stores the DNA, which contains the genetic information necessary for the cell's function and replication. This genetic material controls the cell's activities and characteristics. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because supporting the cell, making proteins, and producing energy are functions typically associated with other cell organelles like the cytoskeleton, ribosomes, and mitochondria, respectively.

2. What happens to messenger RNA when it reaches the cytoplasm?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. When mRNA reaches the cytoplasm, it attaches to a ribosome. The ribosome functions as the site for protein synthesis through translation, where the genetic code carried by mRNA is read and translated into a specific sequence of amino acids. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because mRNA does not unzip, expose nitrogen bases, pair with DNA bases, or pull free of the DNA strand in the cytoplasm. The primary function of mRNA in the cytoplasm is to serve as a template for protein synthesis by binding to ribosomes.

3. In a phospholipid molecule, the head:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The head of a phospholipid is hydrophilic (water-loving) and is located on the outer side of the lipid bilayer, interacting with water molecules. This arrangement positions the hydrophobic tails inward, away from water. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Choice A is incorrect because the head is hydrophilic, not hydrophobic. Choice B is incorrect as the head is on the outer side, not the inner side of the layer.

4. Muscles are connected to bones by ______, and bones are connected to each other by ______.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Muscles are connected to bones by tendons, which allow the muscle to exert force on the bone for movement. Bones are connected to each other by ligaments, which provide stability and support to the joints between bones. This relationship between muscles, tendons, bones, and ligaments is essential for proper movement and function of the musculoskeletal system. Choice A is incorrect because muscles are not directly connected to bones; tendons serve as the connection between muscles and bones. Choice D is incorrect because ligaments connect bones to each other, not muscles to bones.

5. Select the option that best shows complementary base pairing in DNA:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A purine (A) must pair with a pyrimidine (T) in DNA. This eliminates options A and C as they do not follow the rule of complementary base pairing. Adenine (A) always pairs with thymine (T) due to their specific shape and bonding properties in DNA structure. Choice B is incorrect because adenine does not pair with cytosine in DNA.

Similar Questions

Why is it important for cells to undergo mitosis?
What kind of bond connects sugar and phosphate in DNA?
How many chromosomes do sperm and egg produce in meiosis?
Which of the following bases is not present in RNA?
Which cellular structure is largely protective in function?

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$89/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$129.99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses