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. Why is it important for cells to undergo mitosis?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is important for cells to undergo mitosis because it produces cells for the growth and repair of body tissues. Mitosis allows for the formation of genetically identical daughter cells, ensuring proper function and maintenance of the organism's body. By producing new cells, mitosis helps in the replenishment of damaged or worn-out tissue and supports overall growth and development. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because mitosis is not directly related to reproduction with male and female gametes, increasing variation within the species, or producing cells different from the parent cell. These functions are more associated with meiosis, which is specifically for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity.

3. How many pairs of homologous chromosomes do humans have?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 46. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, which include 22 pairs of autosomes and 1 pair of sex chromosomes. Homologous chromosomes are pairs of chromosomes that contain the same genes, one from each parent. Therefore, humans have a total of 46 chromosomes, with 23 pairs of homologous chromosomes. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not represent the total number of chromosomes in humans or the number of pairs of homologous chromosomes.

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

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.

5. Which component of the cell contributes to the protection, communication, and passage of substances into and out of the cell?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the cell membrane. The cell membrane is responsible for protecting the cell, facilitating communication with the external environment, and regulating the passage of substances into and out of the cell. The nucleus (Choice A) is the control center of the cell and houses the genetic material but is not primarily involved in these functions. The endoplasmic reticulum (Choice C) is involved in protein synthesis and lipid metabolism, not primarily in protection or communication. The cytoplasm (Choice D) is the gel-like substance that fills the cell but does not specifically contribute to protection, communication, or substance passage.

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