Nursing Elites

1. What is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a vast amount of energy called?

• A. Nuclear fusion
• B. Nuclear fission
• C. Radioactive decay
• D. Chain reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nuclear fission. Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a vast amount of energy. This process is commonly used in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. It is a controlled chain reaction that generates energy. Option A, Nuclear fusion, is the process of combining two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. This process powers the sun and other stars. Option C, Radioactive decay, is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. Option D, Chain reaction, is a self-sustaining reaction where the products of one reaction event stimulate further reaction events. While chain reactions can occur in both nuclear fission and fusion, the specific process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller ones is known as nuclear fission.

2. What is the primary source of energy entering most ecosystems?

• A. Chemical energy stored in bonds
• B. Thermal energy from the Earth's core
• C. Light energy from the sun
• D. Kinetic energy from wind and water

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In most ecosystems, the primary source of energy is sunlight. This energy is captured by plants and other photosynthetic organisms through the process of photosynthesis. These organisms convert light energy into chemical energy stored in the bonds of organic molecules, such as glucose. This stored chemical energy is then passed on to other organisms in the ecosystem through the food chain, making sunlight the fundamental source of energy for most ecosystems. Thermal energy from the Earth's core (option B) is not a primary source of energy for ecosystems, as it is not readily accessible to most organisms. Kinetic energy from wind and water (option D) can play a role in some ecosystems, but it is not the primary source of energy. Chemical energy stored in bonds (option A) is a form of energy that is ultimately derived from the sun through photosynthesis, making it a product of the primary energy source rather than the primary source itself.

3. What is the function of a cell wall?

• A. To provide structural support for the cell
• B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
• C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
• D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. Its main function is to provide structural support and protection for the cell, helping maintain the cell's shape and preventing it from bursting or collapsing. The cell wall also allows for the passage of water, ions, and other molecules in and out of the cell. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because those functions are typically carried out by other cellular structures. Option B is performed by the cell membrane, option C by ribosomes, and option D by the nucleus, which stores genetic material.

4. How many mL of a 0 M stock solution of HCl should be added to water to create 250 mL of a 50 M solution of HCl?

• A. 31.25 mL
• B. 32 mL
• C. 30 mL
• D. 31.3 mL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To prepare 250 mL of a 50 M solution of HCl, the formula V1 x C1 = V2 x C2 is used, where V1 is the volume of the stock solution, C1 is the concentration of the stock solution, V2 is the final volume of the desired solution, and C2 is the final concentration of the desired solution. Given V1 x 0 M = 250 mL x 50 M, solving for V1 results in V1 = (250 mL x 50 M) / 0 M = 32 mL. Therefore, 32 mL of the 0 M stock solution of HCl needs to be added to water to create a 250 mL solution of 50 M HCl. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the accurate volume required for the dilution calculation based on the given concentrations and volumes in the problem.

5. Which enzyme found in saliva is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into smaller molecules like sugars?

• A. Pepsin
• B. Amylase
• C. Lipase
• D. Trypsin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which specifically targets carbohydrates and breaks them down into smaller molecules like sugars. Pepsin, choice A, is an enzyme found in the stomach that breaks down proteins, not carbohydrates. Lipase, choice C, is responsible for breaking down fats, not carbohydrates. Trypsin, choice D, is an enzyme that breaks down proteins in the small intestine, not carbohydrates. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect for this question.

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