Nursing Elites

1. What is the 3D structure of a protein called?

• A. Tertiary structure
• B. Secondary structure
• C. Primary structure
• D. Quaternary structure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: - Primary structure refers to the linear sequence of amino acids in a protein. - Secondary structure refers to local folded structures within a protein, such as alpha helices and beta sheets. - Tertiary structure is the overall 3D shape of a protein, which is determined by interactions between amino acid side chains and the environment. - Quaternary structure refers to the arrangement of multiple protein subunits in a protein complex. Therefore, the 3D structure of a protein is called the tertiary structure because it represents the overall folding of the protein into a specific shape.

2. If a scientist finds that the results of her experiment seem to contradict her hypothesis, what is the best course of action?

• A. Publish the results anyway, acknowledging that her hypothesis seems to have been incorrect.
• B. Keep trying the experiment until the results match her hypothesis.
• C. Publish the results, retroactively changing the hypothesis.
• D. None of the above; this cannot occur. The experimental results cannot contradict the hypothesis, by definition.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The best course of action is to publish the results anyway, acknowledging that her hypothesis seems to have been incorrect. Science relies on accurate reporting and transparency, even if the results do not align with the original hypothesis. This allows for further discussion, analysis, and potentially new hypotheses to be developed based on the findings. It is essential in scientific research to report both positive and negative results to contribute to the body of knowledge and advance understanding in the field. Choice B is incorrect because persisting with the same experiment to force results to align with the hypothesis goes against scientific integrity and may lead to biased conclusions. Choice C is incorrect as changing the hypothesis after obtaining results is not scientifically sound and undermines the credibility of the research. Choice D is incorrect because science embraces the possibility of experimental results contradicting hypotheses, as this provides valuable insights for refining theories and expanding scientific knowledge.

3. What is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a vast amount of energy called?

• A. Nuclear fusion
• B. Nuclear fission
• C. Radioactive decay
• D. Chain reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nuclear fission. Nuclear fission is the process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller nuclei, releasing a vast amount of energy. This process is commonly used in nuclear power plants and nuclear weapons. It is a controlled chain reaction that generates energy. Option A, Nuclear fusion, is the process of combining two light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy. This process powers the sun and other stars. Option C, Radioactive decay, is the process by which an unstable atomic nucleus loses energy by emitting radiation. Option D, Chain reaction, is a self-sustaining reaction where the products of one reaction event stimulate further reaction events. While chain reactions can occur in both nuclear fission and fusion, the specific process of splitting a heavy nucleus into smaller ones is known as nuclear fission.

4. What is the definition of the term 'momentum' in physics?

• A. Force exerted on an object
• B. Speed of an object in motion
• C. Mass in motion
• D. Distance traveled per unit time

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Momentum in physics is the product of an object's mass and its velocity. It is a vector quantity that describes the motion of an object and is given by the formula p = mv, where p is momentum, m is mass, and v is velocity. Therefore, momentum is best described as the mass of an object in motion. Choice A, 'Force exerted on an object,' is incorrect because force is not equivalent to momentum. Choice B, 'Speed of an object in motion,' is incorrect because speed only considers the rate of motion and not the mass aspect. Choice D, 'Distance traveled per unit time,' is incorrect as it relates to speed and not momentum, which involves both mass and velocity.

5. What does the term 'electron configuration' refer to in relation to an atom?

• A. The arrangement of electrons in an atom's orbitals.
• B. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus.
• C. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus.
• D. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The electron configuration of an atom refers to the arrangement of electrons in the atom's orbitals. This arrangement determines the atom's chemical properties and behavior. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus (option B) is known as the atomic number, which defines the element. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus (option C) contributes to the atom's mass number. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell (option D) is important for understanding the atom's reactivity and bonding behavior, but the electron configuration specifically refers to how electrons are distributed among the different orbitals in an atom.

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