HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. What function does cholesterol, a phospholipid, serve within the cell membrane?
- A. It builds up fats to make the structure more flexible
- B. It allows protein channels to form
- C. It makes the structure very rigid and impermeable
- D. It stabilizes the membrane structure
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Cholesterol helps to maintain the fluidity and stability of the cell membrane by fitting between the phospholipid molecules. Choice A is incorrect because cholesterol does not build up fats in the cell membrane. Choice B is incorrect as protein channels are formed by proteins, not cholesterol. Choice C is incorrect as cholesterol actually helps regulate the fluidity of the membrane, making it less rigid and more permeable.
2. Which of the following describes the set of metabolic reactions and processes that take place in the cells of organisms to convert biochemical energy from nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and then release waste products?
- A. Cellular respiration
- B. Meiosis
- C. Photosynthesis
- D. Mitosis
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cellular respiration. Cellular respiration is the process in cells that converts biochemical energy from nutrients into ATP and releases waste products. This process occurs in the mitochondria of the cell. Choice B, Meiosis, is a type of cell division that produces gametes with half the chromosome number. Choice C, Photosynthesis, is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy to produce glucose. Choice D, Mitosis, is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells with identical sets of chromosomes as the parent cell.
3. What must first occur before a cell can be divided to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms?
- A. RNA replication
- B. DNA replication
- C. Gene replication
- D. Chromosome replication
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: DNA replication. Before a cell can divide to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms, DNA replication must occur. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while RNA, genes, and chromosomes are essential components of cell division, DNA replication is the specific process that must first occur to ensure accurate transmission of genetic material.
4. Which of the following is often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell?
- A. Nucleus
- B. Chromatin
- C. Mitochondria
- D. Ribosomes
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate most of the cell's supply of ATP, which is the energy currency used for various cellular processes. The nucleus (Choice A) is the control center of the cell, housing genetic material. Chromatin (Choice B) is a complex of DNA and proteins within the nucleus. Ribosomes (Choice D) are responsible for protein synthesis and not the primary energy production in the cell.
5. Which two items react during cellular respiration?
- A. Glucose and water
- B. Carbon dioxide and water
- C. Carbon dioxide and oxygen
- D. Glucose and oxygen
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Glucose and oxygen. During cellular respiration, glucose and oxygen react in the presence of enzymes to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP. Choice A (Glucose and water) is incorrect because water is a product of cellular respiration, not a reactant. Choice B (Carbon dioxide and water) is incorrect as carbon dioxide is produced during cellular respiration, not a reactant. Choice C (Carbon dioxide and oxygen) is incorrect because oxygen is a reactant in cellular respiration, not a product.
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