Nursing Elites

1. The number of protons in an atom determines its:

• A. Mass number
• B. Atomic number
• C. Atomic weight
• D. Valence electron count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The number of protons in an atom is known as the atomic number. The atomic number uniquely identifies an element and determines its position on the periodic table. It is a fundamental property of an element and directly influences its chemical behavior and interactions. The mass number, on the other hand, is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom, not just protons. Atomic weight is the average mass of an element's isotopes considering their relative abundance, not solely based on the number of protons. Valence electron count refers to the number of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom, influencing its ability to form bonds and participate in chemical reactions, but it is not determined by the number of protons in the atom.

2. Which of the following structures in the body is responsible for protecting the lungs and heart?

• A. Rib cage
• B. Pelvis
• C. Femur
• D. Vertebral column

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The rib cage is the correct answer. It plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs like the lungs and heart. The rib cage forms a protective barrier around these organs, shielding them from external trauma or injuries. It acts as a sturdy cage, offering structural support and safeguarding the delicate tissues and structures of the lungs and heart. The pelvis, femur, and vertebral column do not directly protect the lungs and heart; instead, they have other important functions in the body, such as supporting the body's weight, enabling movement, and protecting the spinal cord.

3. Which type of waves travel by causing particles in the medium to vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel?

• A. Transverse waves
• B. Longitudinal waves
• C. Surface waves
• D. Electromagnetic waves

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Longitudinal waves are waves in which particles of the medium vibrate parallel to the direction of wave travel. These waves are characterized by compressions and rarefactions in the medium, where particles move back and forth in the same direction as the wave. Transverse waves, on the other hand, cause particles to vibrate perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. Surface waves combine both longitudinal and transverse motion, making them different from pure longitudinal waves. Electromagnetic waves, unlike longitudinal and transverse waves, do not require a medium and can travel through a vacuum.

4. Which of the following neurotransmitters is associated with the feeling of happiness and well-being?

• A. Dopamine
• B. Serotonin
• C. GABA
• D. Acetylcholine

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter known for its role in mood regulation, promoting feelings of happiness and well-being. It helps regulate emotions, sleep, and appetite. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to conditions like depression and anxiety. Choice A, Dopamine, is more associated with pleasure and reward pathways in the brain. GABA (Choice C) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter involved in reducing neuronal excitability, not primarily linked to happiness. Acetylcholine (Choice D) is involved in muscle contraction and has functions related to memory and attention, but it is not primarily associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.

5. Which of the following structures is located in the pelvic cavity?

• A. The kidneys
• B. The colon
• C. The bladder
• D. The rectum

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the bladder. The bladder is situated in the pelvic cavity, specifically in the lower part of the abdomen. The kidneys are positioned higher up in the abdominal cavity, not in the pelvic region. The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine and are primarily located in the abdominal cavity, not the pelvic cavity. Therefore, the bladder is the only structure listed that is anatomically situated in the pelvic cavity.

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