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. A scientist needs 12 mL of a solution. They have a bottle with 12L in it. Do they have enough?

A. Yes, they have exactly what they need
B. Yes, they have more than what they need
C. No, they do not have enough
D. None of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 1 liter has 1000 milliliters. To convert from milliliters to liters, the decimal point moves three places to the left. So, the bottle has 12000 mL of solution, which is a lot more than the required 12 mL. Therefore, the scientist has more than what they need. Choice A is incorrect as the bottle has more than the required amount. Choice C is incorrect as the bottle contains significantly more solution than needed. Choice D is incorrect as the scientist does have more than enough solution.

3. Which of the following is the best example of a hypothesis?

A. Dogs like treats
B. Red is the best color
C. If I eat 100 donuts, then I will feel sick
D. If a plant is exposed to red light, then it will show less growth than natural light

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Option D is the best example of a hypothesis because it presents a clear cause-and-effect relationship that can be tested through experimentation. It follows the format of 'If [cause], then [effect]' which is characteristic of a hypothesis in scientific research. The statement is specific, testable, and does not rely on personal opinions or biases, making it a strong and valid hypothesis. Choices A, B, and C do not follow the structure of a hypothesis as they lack the cause-and-effect relationship that can be tested through experimentation. They are more like statements or opinions rather than hypotheses.

4. A pencil measures 8cm long. What is this in mm?

A. 80 mm
B. 800 mm
C. 8 mm
D. 0.8 mm

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To convert centimeters to millimeters, you need to multiply by 10 since 1 centimeter is equal to 10 millimeters. Therefore, 8 cm x 10 mm/cm = 80 mm. The pencil measures 8 cm, which is equivalent to 80 mm when converted. Choice A is correct as it correctly converts 8 cm to mm by multiplying it by 10. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not apply the correct conversion factor.

5. Which is not a product of the Krebs cycle?

A. ATP
B. Carbon dioxide
C. Glucose
D. NADH

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Glucose is not a direct product of the Krebs cycle. Glucose is a starting molecule that undergoes glycolysis outside the mitochondria to produce pyruvate, which then enters the mitochondrial matrix to participate in the Krebs cycle. The Krebs cycle primarily generates ATP, carbon dioxide, and NADH as products. Choices A, B, and D are all products of the Krebs cycle, making them incorrect answers.