what is the basic unit of life
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test 2024

1. What is the fundamental unit of life?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Cell.' Cells are indeed the fundamental unit of life as they are responsible for all living functions, including growth, reproduction, and maintaining homeostasis. While atoms are the basic building blocks of matter, cells are the smallest structural and functional unit of living organisms. Choices C and D, tissue and organ respectively, are composed of multiple cells working together and are not considered the basic unit of life.

2. Which cellular structure is found in animal cells but not in plant cells?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Centriole. Centrioles are found in animal cells but not in plant cells. They play a crucial role in organizing microtubules during cell division, aiding in the formation of the mitotic spindle. Plant cells lack centrioles; instead, they utilize microtubule organizing centers to perform similar functions during cell division. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because cytoplasm is a part of both animal and plant cells, vacuoles are found in plant cells and some animal cells, and the Golgi apparatus is present in both types of cells.

3. The two catabolic pathways that lead to cellular energy production are:

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: cellular respiration and fermentation. Cellular respiration involves the breakdown of glucose in the presence of oxygen to produce ATP, which is the primary source of energy for cells. Fermentation, on the other hand, occurs in the absence of oxygen and produces ATP through glycolysis followed by specific fermentation pathways. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Protein synthesis is a biosynthetic process, not a catabolic pathway for energy production. Glycolysis is a common step in both cellular respiration and fermentation, so it is not a pair of distinct catabolic pathways. Therefore, the most accurate pairing of catabolic pathways for cellular energy production is cellular respiration and fermentation.

4. The procedure to focus an image using a compound microscope involves

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When using a compound microscope, it is essential to adjust the fine adjustment knob each time you switch to a new magnification level. The fine adjustment knob allows for precise focusing on the specimen at different magnifications, ensuring a clear and sharp image. The coarse adjustment knob is typically used only at the lower magnification settings to bring the image into view roughly. Adjusting the stage may be necessary based on the size and thickness of the specimen, but it does not need to be done every time a new magnification is selected. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it focuses on the key aspect of precise focusing during magnification changes.

5. Which of the following is false?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The statement "B. Animal cells use chloroplasts to gain energy" is false. Chloroplasts are only present in plant cells and certain algae, where they are responsible for photosynthesis to generate energy from sunlight. Animal cells rely on other organelles, such as mitochondria, for energy production. Choice A is true because animal cells use lysosomes to break down old cells and cellular waste. Choice C is true as plant cells have a cell wall composed of cellulose that provides structural support and protection.

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