Nursing Elites

1. What is a gene, and what is the relationship between genes, genotype, and phenotype?

• A. A gene is a sequence of amino acids; genes make up proteins; genotype determines phenotype
• B. A gene is a portion of DNA; genes determine traits; genotype is the genetic makeup; phenotype is the physical manifestation
• C. A gene is a protein; proteins determine traits; genotype is the set of all genes
• D. A gene is a lipid; lipids determine traits; phenotype is the physical manifestation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A gene is a portion of DNA that contains the instructions for a specific trait. Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an organism, encompassing all its genes. Phenotype, on the other hand, is the observable physical manifestation resulting from the interaction between an organism's genotype and environmental factors. Choice A is incorrect because genes do not consist of amino acids directly; they are sequences of nucleotides. Choice C is incorrect as genes do not determine traits directly but provide the instructions for proteins that may influence traits. Choice D is incorrect as genes are not lipids, and lipids do not determine traits; they are a type of biomolecule with different functions.

2. What cellular process ensures the accurate transmission of genetic material during cell division?

• A. Mitosis (somatic cell division)
• B. Meiosis (germ cell division)
• C. Replication (DNA duplication)
• D. Transcription (DNA to RNA conversion)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Mitosis is the correct answer. Mitosis is the process by which somatic cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells. During mitosis, the genetic material is accurately replicated and distributed to ensure each daughter cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. This process is crucial for growth, repair, and maintenance of multicellular organisms. Meiosis, on the other hand, is the type of cell division that occurs in germ cells to produce gametes (sperm and egg cells), focusing on genetic diversity through recombination and reduction of chromosome number. Replication is the process of copying DNA to produce an identical copy, essential for cell division but not the specific process ensuring accurate genetic material transmission. Transcription involves copying DNA into RNA, crucial for gene expression but not directly related to the accurate transmission of genetic material during cell division.

3. Water is capable of dissolving many substances that organisms need to carry out life functions. Which of the properties of water listed below is responsible for its ability to dissolve important nutrients like ionic salt compounds?

• A. adhesion
• B. cohesion
• C. high specific heat
• D. high polarity

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The property of water that is responsible for its ability to dissolve important nutrients like ionic salt compounds is its high polarity. Water is a polar molecule with a positive and negative end, which allows it to attract and surround individual ions from salt compounds, causing them to dissociate and dissolve in water. This property makes water an excellent solvent for various substances necessary for life functions. Adhesion refers to the ability of water molecules to stick to other substances, cohesion is the attraction between water molecules themselves, and high specific heat is the amount of heat energy required to raise the temperature of water. While these properties are important characteristics of water, they are not directly responsible for its ability to dissolve ionic salt compounds.

4. Which of the following is a function of the large intestine?

• A. Absorption of water
• B. Production of vitamin K
• C. Production of vitamin B
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The large intestine performs various functions, including the absorption of water, production of vitamin K, and production of some B vitamins. Water absorption is a crucial function of the large intestine, helping to concentrate waste material into feces. Additionally, the large intestine hosts beneficial bacteria that produce vitamin K and some B vitamins, which are absorbed into the body. Choices A, B, and C individually represent specific functions of the large intestine, while choice D correctly encompasses all these functions, making it the most comprehensive and accurate answer.

5. Why is the stratified squamous epithelium found in the skin adapted for?

• A. Absorption
• B. Secretion
• C. Protection
• D. Gas exchange

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The stratified squamous epithelium found in the skin is adapted for protection. This type of epithelium forms a tough, protective barrier against physical, chemical, and biological damage. Its multiple layers of cells help prevent the entry of pathogens and reduce water loss from the body, making it essential for shielding the underlying tissues. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because stratified squamous epithelium is not specialized for absorption, secretion, or gas exchange. Instead, its primary function is to protect the underlying tissues and organs from external damage and dehydration.

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