what is a mutation

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. What is a mutation?

A. A change in the DNA sequence
B. A type of protein
C. A normal part of the DNA replication process
D. A harmless variation in DNA

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These alterations can lead to modifications in the genetic information carried by an organism, resulting in effects that can range from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations play a crucial role in genetic diversity and evolution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define what a mutation is. Option B is incorrect because mutations are not a type of protein but rather changes in DNA. Option C is incorrect because while mutations can occur during DNA replication, they are not considered a 'normal' part of the process as they can lead to genetic variations. Option D is incorrect because mutations can have a wide range of effects and are not always harmless variations.

2. What is the process of converting glucose into ATP, the cell's primary energy currency, called?

A. Cellular respiration
B. Fermentation
C. Photosynthesis
D. Hydrolysis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A) Cellular respiration is the correct answer. It is the process by which cells convert glucose into ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell. This process involves a series of biochemical reactions that occur in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells or the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells. Through cellular respiration, the energy stored in glucose molecules is gradually released and captured in the form of ATP. B) Fermentation is an anaerobic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen. It involves the partial breakdown of glucose to produce ATP and end products such as lactic acid or ethanol. While fermentation can generate ATP, it is less efficient than cellular respiration in terms of energy production. C) Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process occurs in chloroplasts and is the opposite of cellular respiration. While photosynthesis produces glucose, it is not the process of converting glucose into ATP. D) Hydrolysis is a chemical process that uses water to break down molecules into smaller components. It is not specifically related to converting glucose into ATP.

3. Which muscles play a significant role in the process of forced exhalation by contracting to reduce the thoracic cavity volume?

A. Diaphragm
B. External intercostal muscles
C. Internal intercostal muscles
D. Abdominal muscles

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The abdominal muscles play a significant role in forced exhalation by contracting to reduce the thoracic cavity volume. When these muscles contract, the pressure within the thoracic cavity increases, assisting in the expulsion of air from the lungs. This action helps to compress the abdomen and push the diaphragm upwards, further decreasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and aiding in the exhalation process. The diaphragm (Choice A) is mainly involved in inhalation by contracting and moving downward to increase thoracic cavity volume. External intercostal muscles (Choice B) and internal intercostal muscles (Choice C) are primarily involved in the process of inhalation by expanding the thoracic cavity during normal breathing, rather than forced exhalation.

4. Water is considered a universal solvent due to its ____.

A. Cohesion
B. Adhesion
C. Molarity
D. Dilution

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Adhesion. Water's polarity allows it to dissolve many substances due to its ability to adhere to and interact with other molecules, making it an effective solvent. Cohesion refers to water molecules sticking together, molarity is a measure of concentration, and dilution refers to the process of reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution, none of which directly relate to water's role as a universal solvent.

5. Where is the gastrocnemius vein in relation to the femoral vein?

A. Lateral
B. Distal
C. Superior
D. Ventral

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The gastrocnemius vein is located lateral to the femoral vein. In anatomical terms, lateral refers to the direction towards the side of the body or away from the midline. In this case, the gastrocnemius vein is positioned to the side of the femoral vein. The term 'distal' refers to being further away from the point of reference, 'superior' indicates a higher position, and 'ventral' refers to the front or anterior aspect of the body. Therefore, the correct answer is A. Lateral.