Nursing Elites

1. What happens when an atom loses an electron?

• A. It forms a molecule.
• B. It gains a positive charge and becomes an ion.
• C. It alters its elemental identity.
• D. No change occurs; it remains neutral.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an atom loses an electron, it gains a positive charge and becomes an ion. This occurs because the number of protons in the atom exceeds the number of electrons, leading to a positive charge. Therefore, the atom undergoes a transformation into an ion by losing an electron. Choice A is incorrect because losing an electron does not result in the formation of a molecule, as molecules are made up of bonded atoms. Choice C is incorrect because losing an electron does not change the fundamental identity of the atom; it only changes its charge. Choice D is incorrect because losing an electron causes the atom to become positively charged, altering its neutrality.

2. What is the name for the process by which a cell divides into two daughter cells?

• A. Meiosis
• B. Mitosis
• C. Fission
• D. Binary fission

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mitosis is the correct process by which a cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells. Meiosis involves two rounds of cell division resulting in four daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Fission refers to the division of a single-celled organism into two separate organisms, while binary fission specifically describes the division of prokaryotic cells. Therefore, the correct answer is Mitosis as it accurately represents the process of a cell dividing into two daughter cells.

3. Which organelle is responsible for breaking down macromolecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, into their smaller building blocks?

• A. Golgi apparatus
• B. Mitochondria
• C. Lysosomes
• D. Endoplasmic reticulum

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down macromolecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, into their smaller building blocks. These enzymes help in the process of intracellular digestion and recycling of cellular components. The Golgi apparatus is involved in processing and packaging proteins for secretion or for use within the cell. Mitochondria are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration. The endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism. Therefore, the correct answer is 'C: Lysosomes' as they specifically function in the breakdown of macromolecules into smaller components, distinguishing them from the other organelles mentioned.

4. An uncharged atom has an electron configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² and a mass number of 14. How many protons does it have?

• A. 14
• B. 6
• C. 8
• D. 12

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The number of protons in an atom is determined by the atomic number, which is equal to the number of protons in the nucleus. The electron configuration given corresponds to carbon (C) with 6 protons. The atomic number of an element is the same as the number of protons in its nucleus, so in this case, the atom has 6 protons. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not correspond to the correct number of protons for an atom with the given electron configuration and mass number. Therefore, option B, 6 protons, is the correct answer.

5. Which muscle has involuntary cells that are branched and striated and connected by intercalated discs with gap junctions?

• A. Smooth muscle
• B. Cardiac muscle
• C. Skeletal muscle
• D. Epithelial muscle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cardiac muscle. Cardiac muscle cells fit the description provided in the question; they are involuntary, striated, and branched, with intercalated discs containing gap junctions that allow for synchronized contractions of the heart. Smooth muscle (choice A) lacks striations and is found in the walls of internal organs. Skeletal muscle (choice C) is voluntary and attaches to bones for movement. 'Epithelial muscle' (choice D) is not a valid muscle type, making it an incorrect choice.

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