Nursing Elites

1. What is an electrically charged atom called?

• A. Ion
• B. Isotope
• C. Molecule
• D. Compound

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An ion is an atom that has gained or lost electrons, resulting in a positive or negative charge, making it electrically charged. This term specifically refers to atoms with a net electrical charge. Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons, not electrically charged. Molecules are formed when atoms bond together, but they are not necessarily charged. Compounds are substances composed of different elements bonded together, but they may not be electrically charged.

2. Which part of the brain generates the rhythmic electrical activity responsible for brain waves?

• A. Cerebrum
• B. Thalamus
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Reticular formation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The reticular formation is a network of neurons located in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in regulating arousal and consciousness. It generates the rhythmic electrical activity responsible for brain waves, which are measured using electroencephalography (EEG). The cerebrum, thalamus, and hypothalamus do not primarily generate brain waves; they have other specialized functions within the brain. The cerebrum is responsible for higher brain functions such as thinking and voluntary movements. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information. The hypothalamus is involved in various functions such as regulating body temperature, hunger, and hormonal activities.

3. Which of the following neurotransmitters slows down the activity of neurons to prevent overexcitation?

• A. Acetylcholine
• B. Dopamine
• C. GABA
• D. Serotonin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows down neuronal activity, helping to prevent overexcitation in the brain. It counterbalances the effects of excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of neuronal activity in the brain. Acetylcholine (Choice A) is primarily an excitatory neurotransmitter involved in muscle movement and cognitive functions. Dopamine (Choice B) plays a role in reward-motivated behavior and motor control. Serotonin (Choice D) is involved in regulating mood, appetite, and sleep but is not primarily responsible for slowing down neuronal activity to prevent overexcitation.

4. Microfilaments and microtubules are both components of the cytoskeleton, but they have different functions. Which of these describes microfilaments?

• A. Provide structural support and shape
• B. Facilitate cell movement and contraction
• C. Form the mitotic spindle during cell division
• D. Transport materials within the cell

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Microfilaments are thin, solid rods made of the protein actin and are primarily responsible for providing structural support to the cell and determining its shape. While they also play a role in cell movement, their main function is related to maintaining the structural integrity of the cell. Choice B, 'Facilitate cell movement and contraction,' describes microtubules, which are responsible for facilitating cell movement, providing structural support, and aiding in cell division. Choice C, 'Form the mitotic spindle during cell division,' specifically refers to the function of microtubules in forming the mitotic spindle. Choice D, 'Transport materials within the cell,' is characteristic of microtubules that are involved in intracellular transport of organelles and materials within the cell.

5. Which of these organs is NOT involved in the production of digestive enzymes?

• A. Mouth
• B. Stomach
• C. Pancreas
• D. Small intestine

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A) Mouth: The mouth is involved in the mechanical breakdown of food through chewing and the initiation of carbohydrate digestion by the enzyme amylase in saliva, but it does not produce digestive enzymes. The salivary amylase in the mouth helps in breaking down carbohydrates. However, it is not an organ that produces digestive enzymes. B) Stomach: The stomach produces gastric juices containing enzymes like pepsin that help break down proteins. C) Pancreas: The pancreas produces various digestive enzymes such as amylase, lipase, and proteases that aid in the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. D) Small intestine: The small intestine produces enzymes such as peptidases, sucrase, lactase, and maltase that further break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats for absorption. Therefore, the mouth is the organ that is NOT involved in the production of digestive enzymes.

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