Nursing Elites

1. What function do ribosomes serve within the cell?

• A. Ribosomes are responsible for cell movement.
• B. Ribosomes aid in protein synthesis.
• C. Ribosomes help protect the cell from its environment.
• D. Ribosomes have enzymes that help with digestion.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ribosomes serve a crucial role in protein synthesis by translating mRNA into proteins. They are not involved in cell movement, protecting the cell from the environment, or aiding in digestion. Choice A is incorrect because ribosomes are not responsible for cell movement. Choice C is incorrect because ribosomes do not primarily protect the cell from its environment. Choice D is incorrect because ribosomes do not have enzymes that aid in digestion.

2. Which level of protein structure is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone?

• A. Primary
• B. Secondary
• C. Tertiary
• D. Quaternary

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Secondary. The secondary structure of a protein is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone. This level of structure is characterized by the formation of alpha helices and beta sheets, which are stabilized by hydrogen bonds between amino acids along the polypeptide chain. Choice A, Primary, refers to the linear sequence of amino acids in the protein. Choice C, Tertiary, involves the 3D folding of the entire polypeptide chain. Choice D, Quaternary, pertains to the arrangement of multiple polypeptide subunits in a protein complex.

3. Which of the following best defines the term amphoteric?

• A. A substance that conducts electricity due to ionization when dissolved in a solvent
• B. A substance that can act as an acid or a base depending on the properties of the solute
• C. A substance that, according to the Brønsted-Lowry Acid-Base Theory, is a proton-donor
• D. A substance that donates its proton and forms its conjugate base in a neutralization reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An amphoteric substance can act as both an acid or a base depending on the environment. It can donate a proton (act as an acid) or accept a proton (act as a base), showing versatility in its behavior. Choice A is incorrect as it describes an electrolyte rather than an amphoteric substance. Choice C is incorrect as it defines an acid based on the Brønsted-Lowry Acid-Base Theory. Choice D is incorrect as it specifically refers to a substance donating a proton in a neutralization reaction, not capturing the dual behavior of an amphoteric substance.

4. What is the process of breaking down fatty acids into acetyl-CoA, a key molecule in cellular respiration, called?

• A. Beta-oxidation
• B. Lipolysis
• C. Carbohydrate catabolism
• D. Nucleic acid catabolism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Beta-oxidation is the correct term for the process of breaking down fatty acids into acetyl-CoA molecules. This essential process takes place in the mitochondria and is a pivotal step in fatty acid metabolism for energy production. Lipolysis, however, refers to the breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol but does not specifically involve the conversion of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA. Carbohydrate catabolism focuses on breaking down carbohydrates into glucose for energy production and is not directly linked to the conversion of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA. Nucleic acid catabolism involves the breakdown of nucleic acids into nucleotides and is not associated with the conversion of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA.

5. What is the most basic unit of structure in living things?

• A. Cell
• B. Organelle
• C. Oxygen
• D. Pigment

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell is indeed the most basic unit of life, forming the foundation of all living organisms. Cells are the building blocks of all living things, containing organelles that perform specific functions. While oxygen is essential for life, it is not a structural unit. Similarly, pigment is a component found within cells but is not the fundamental unit of structure. Therefore, the correct answer is 'A: Cell.'

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