Nursing Elites

1. What is hydroxyapatite?

• A. A mixture of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus that strengthen the collagen matrix of bone.
• B. The structural unit of a bone that runs the length of the bone.
• C. The covering of bones at the point of articulation to prevent grinding.
• D. The lightest portion of a long bone and concentrated at the ends.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hydroxyapatite is a mineral compound composed of calcium and phosphorus that plays a crucial role in strengthening the collagen matrix of bones, contributing to their structural integrity and hardness. It is a key component of bone tissue and provides the mineralization necessary for bone strength and density. Choice B is incorrect because the structural unit of a bone is the osteon or Haversian system, not hydroxyapatite. Choice C is incorrect as it describes cartilage, not hydroxyapatite. Choice D is incorrect as it refers to the epiphysis, which is not synonymous with hydroxyapatite.

2. Which structure do cells rely on for movement?

• A. Flagellum
• B. Microtubule
• C. Pili
• D. Vesicle

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Flagellum. Cells rely on flagella for movement, which are whip-like structures that propel the cell forward through their whipping motion. Flagella provide motility to single-celled organisms and certain cells in multicellular organisms. Microtubules, on the other hand, provide structural support to the cell and play a role in intracellular transport. Pili are short, hair-like structures used for attachment to surfaces or other cells, not for movement. Vesicles are membrane-bound sacs involved in intracellular transport, aiding in the movement of substances within the cell, but not in the movement of the cell itself.

3. What enzymes do lysosomes contain, leading to their nickname as the cell's 'suicide bags'?

• A. Hydrolytic enzymes
• B. Ligases (bonding enzymes)
• C. Transferases (molecule transfer)
• D. Oxidoreductases (redox reactions)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Lysosomes are organelles filled with hydrolytic enzymes that break down proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. These enzymes aid in digesting cellular waste and foreign substances, hence the term 'suicide bags' due to their involvement in cell degradation and recycling. Ligases are enzymes that catalyze the joining of two large molecules by forming a new chemical bond, not present in lysosomes. Transferases are enzymes that catalyze the transfer of functional groups from one molecule to another, not found in lysosomes. Oxidoreductases are enzymes involved in oxidation-reduction reactions, which are not the primary function of lysosomes.

4. What is the main component that gives bones their rigidity and hardness?

• A. Collagen
• B. Calcium phosphate
• C. Cartilage
• D. Ligaments

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Calcium phosphate is the main component that gives bones their rigidity and hardness. It combines with calcium hydroxide to form hydroxyapatite crystals, which provide strength and structure to bones. Collagen, on the other hand, provides flexibility and tensile strength. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in joints, and ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones, but they do not contribute to the rigidity and hardness of bones.

5. Which of the following is an example of an aromatic hydrocarbon?

• A. Ethane
• B. Benzene
• C. Propane
• D. Butene

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Benzene is indeed an example of an aromatic hydrocarbon. Aromatic hydrocarbons are characterized by having a cyclic structure with alternating single and double bonds (pi bonds). Benzene fits this description, making it aromatic. On the other hand, ethane, propane, and butene are aliphatic hydrocarbons, which do not have the distinct cyclic structure of aromatic hydrocarbons. Ethane, propane, and butene are aliphatic hydrocarbons, which contain only single bonds and are not cyclic in nature. Therefore, they are not examples of aromatic hydrocarbons.

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