Nursing Elites

1. What is another name for the light-independent reaction in plants?

• A. Photosynthesis
• B. Calvin cycle
• C. Germination
• D. Phosphorus cycle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The light-independent reaction in plants is also known as the Calvin cycle. This biochemical pathway, named after Melvin Calvin who discovered it, takes place in the stroma of chloroplasts and is responsible for converting carbon dioxide into glucose using ATP and NADPH generated during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. The Calvin cycle does not directly require light to function, hence the alternative name as the light-independent reaction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Photosynthesis is the overall process of converting light energy into chemical energy, which includes both light-dependent and light-independent reactions. Germination is the process where a seed sprouts into a new plant. The phosphorus cycle is the biogeochemical cycle that describes the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.

2. In a strand of DNA, you would expect to see adenine paired with ___________.

• A. cytosine
• B. uracil
• C. thymine
• D. guanine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a strand of DNA, adenine always pairs with thymine through two hydrogen bonds. This pairing is a fundamental aspect of DNA structure, where adenine and thymine complement each other in the double helix. Choice A (cytosine) is incorrect because adenine does not pair with cytosine in DNA. Choice B (uracil) is incorrect as uracil is found in RNA, not DNA. Choice D (guanine) is incorrect as guanine pairs with cytosine, not adenine, in DNA.

3. What event occurs during telophase?

• A. The nuclear envelope disappears.
• B. Organelles double in number.
• C. Chromosomes separate.
• D. Two nuclei are formed.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During telophase, the final stage of mitosis, the separated chromosomes reach opposite poles of the cell. At this stage, a new nuclear envelope forms around each set of chromosomes, creating two distinct nuclei. This marks the completion of cell division. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the disappearance of the nuclear envelope typically occurs during prophase, organelles do not double in number during telophase, and chromosomes separate during anaphase, not telophase.

4. What is the function of decomposition in the carbon cycle?

• A. To produce light energy
• B. To convert carbon to fuel
• C. To release carbon dioxide
• D. To store food for consumers

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To release carbon dioxide.' Decomposition in the carbon cycle involves breaking down dead organic matter into simpler substances. During this process, carbon is released in the form of carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This release of carbon dioxide is essential for recycling carbon and making it available for use by living organisms. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because decomposition does not produce light energy, convert carbon to fuel, or store food for consumers; its primary role is to recycle carbon through the release of carbon dioxide.

5. Humans, or Homo sapiens, are part of the family ___________.

• A. Animalia
• B. Hominidae
• C. Mammalia
• D. Chordata

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Humans, or Homo sapiens, are part of the family Hominidae, which includes great apes such as gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans. This family belongs to the order Primates within the class Mammalia. Choice A (Animalia) refers to the animal kingdom, not the family of humans. Choice C (Mammalia) is the class to which the family Hominidae belongs, not the family itself. Choice D (Chordata) is the phylum to which humans and other animals with a notochord belong, not the specific family.

Similar Questions