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. A child is sick. They have a body temperature that exceeds 37ÂșC. The body senses this and begins to sweat in order to lower the temperature. What is this an example of?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: This is an example of a negative feedback loop. In a negative feedback loop, the body's response (sweating) works to counteract the initial stimulus of a high body temperature by cooling the body down. The goal is to return the body to homeostasis, maintaining a stable internal environment. Positive feedback loops amplify the initial stimulus rather than counteracting it, which is not the case here. Therefore, choices A and C are incorrect. Choice D is also incorrect as the situation described fits the characteristics of a negative feedback loop.

3. What is the binding membrane of an animal cell called?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Plasma membrane. The plasma membrane surrounds the cell and acts as an interface between the living interior of the cell and the nonliving exterior. It plays a vital role in maintaining the cell's integrity, regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell, and facilitating communication with other cells. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the term 'plasma membrane' specifically refers to the binding membrane of an animal cell, distinguishing it from other types of membranes or coatings found in cells.

4. The cell membrane consists of a bilayer of phospholipids with proteins, cholesterol, and glycoproteins. What does this bilayer create?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Selectively permeable.' The cell membrane's bilayer structure allows it to be selectively permeable, meaning it can control the passage of substances. This property enables the membrane to regulate the entry and exit of specific molecules, ions, and other substances. Choice A, 'Impermeable,' is incorrect as the cell membrane is not completely impermeable and does allow certain substances to pass through. Choice B, 'Permeable,' is also incorrect as it does not address the selective nature of the membrane. Choice D, 'Selectively impermeable,' is a contradictory term and does not accurately describe the cell membrane's function.

5. What is the initial step in the metabolism of food to cellular energy?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Glycolysis. Glycolysis is the initial step in the metabolism of food to cellular energy. During glycolysis, glucose is broken down into pyruvate, generating ATP and NADH. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the Citric Acid Cycle and Electron Transport Chain occur later in cellular respiration, while Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy.

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