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. Which of the following is responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood?

A. White blood cells
B. Red blood cells
C. Platelets
D. Plasma

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood. Hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells, binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to tissues throughout the body. White blood cells are involved in the immune system's defense mechanisms against infections, platelets help in blood clotting, and plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries various substances like nutrients, hormones, and waste products.

3. Which type of capillary is the most common and least permeable?

A. Fenestrated capillaries
B. Sinusoidal capillaries
C. Continuous capillaries
D. Discontinuous capillaries

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, continuous capillaries. Continuous capillaries are the most common and least permeable type of capillary. They are found in most tissues, including muscle and the nervous system. Continuous capillaries have a continuous endothelium without fenestrations or large gaps, which limits the movement of substances across their walls. Choice A, fenestrated capillaries, have pores (fenestrations) in their endothelial cells, making them more permeable than continuous capillaries. Choice B, sinusoidal capillaries, have a discontinuous endothelium with large gaps between cells, making them more permeable and allowing larger molecules and cells to pass through compared to continuous capillaries. Choice D, discontinuous capillaries, are similar to sinusoidal capillaries with a discontinuous endothelium, allowing for enhanced permeability compared to continuous capillaries.

4. What might happen if blood sugar begins to drop in the human body?

A. The pancreas releases insulin.
B. The liver releases stored glucose.
C. The liver stores glucose as glycogen.
D. The pancreas releases glucagon.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When blood sugar levels drop in the body, the pancreas releases glucagon. Glucagon acts to increase blood sugar levels by stimulating the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. Therefore, the correct answer is D. Choice A is incorrect because the release of insulin lowers blood sugar levels, opposite of what happens when blood sugar is dropping. Choice B is incorrect as the liver releases stored glucose in response to low blood sugar, not when blood sugar is already dropping. Choice C is also incorrect as the liver stores glucose as glycogen but doesn't directly impact blood sugar levels dropping in the moment.

5. What type of reaction is represented by the following equation: Fe2O3 (s) + 3H2 (g) -> 2Fe (s) + 3H2O (g)?

A. Combustion
B. Decomposition
C. Single displacement
D. Redox reaction

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Single displacement. This reaction is a single displacement reaction because the iron (Fe) in Fe2O3 is displaced by the hydrogen (H) in H2 to form Fe and H2O. In single displacement reactions, one element replaces another in a compound. Choice A, Combustion, involves a reaction with oxygen typically producing heat, light, and often a flame. Choice B, Decomposition, is when a compound breaks down into simpler substances. Choice D, Redox reaction, involves both reduction and oxidation reactions happening simultaneously, which is not the case in the provided equation.