what happens during the s phase of the cell cycle

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Biology

1. What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?

A. Chromosomes are duplicated.
B. Cell growth occurs.
C. DNA is synthesized.
D. DNA is destroyed.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the S phase of the cell cycle, chromosomes are duplicated. This is a critical step in cell division as each chromosome is replicated to ensure that the resulting daughter cells receive an identical set of genetic information. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because cell growth primarily occurs in the G1 phase, DNA synthesis happens during the S phase, and DNA destruction does not occur during any phase of the cell cycle.

2. Which of the following is always true about molecules?

A. They cannot travel through all cell membranes
B. They move from low concentration to high concentration without using energy
C. They move from high concentration to low concentration without using energy
D. They cannot move

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement that molecules move from high concentration to low concentration without using energy is always true due to the natural process of diffusion. This movement occurs to reach equilibrium and does not require any additional energy input directly from the molecule itself. Choice A is incorrect because not all molecules can travel through all cell membranes. Choice B is incorrect as molecules typically move from high concentration to low concentration in a process known as passive transport. Choice D is incorrect as molecules are in constant motion due to factors like temperature and kinetic energy.

3. Prokaryotic cells:

A. Have a nucleus
B. Have a capsule
C. Have membrane-bound organelles
D. Cannot move on their own

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Prokaryotic cells do not have a nucleus or membrane-bound organelles. One characteristic feature of prokaryotic cells is the presence of a capsule, which is a protective layer outside the cell wall. This capsule helps the prokaryotic cell adhere to surfaces, evade the host immune system, and protect against desiccation. Choice A is incorrect because prokaryotic cells lack a nucleus. Choice C is incorrect as prokaryotic cells do not have membrane-bound organelles. Choice D is incorrect as prokaryotic cells can move using structures like flagella or pili.

4. What event occurs during telophase?

A. The nuclear envelope disappears.
B. Organelles double in number.
C. Chromosomes separate.
D. Two nuclei are formed.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During telophase, the final stage of mitosis, the separated chromosomes reach opposite poles of the cell. At this stage, a new nuclear envelope forms around each set of chromosomes, creating two distinct nuclei. This marks the completion of cell division. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the disappearance of the nuclear envelope typically occurs during prophase, organelles do not double in number during telophase, and chromosomes separate during anaphase, not telophase.

5. Which organism reproduces via binary fission?

A. Mushroom
B. Blue whale
C. Rainbow trout
D. Salmonella

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Salmonella. Salmonella bacterium reproduces via binary fission, a form of asexual reproduction where the cell divides into two daughter cells with identical genetic material. This process is common among bacteria and single-celled organisms. Mushrooms reproduce through spores, blue whales and rainbow trout reproduce sexually, involving the fusion of male and female gametes. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not reproduce through binary fission.