Nursing Elites

1. What is the fundamental unit of life?

• A. Atom
• B. Cell
• C. Tissue
• D. Organ

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. What is the most important component of the cell, contributing to protection, communication, and the passage of substances?

• A. Cytoplasm
• B. Cell Membrane
• C. Cytoskeleton
• D. Vacuole

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The cell membrane is the correct answer. It is the most important component of the cell as it provides protection, facilitates communication, and regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell. The cytoplasm (Choice A) is the gel-like substance within the cell that holds organelles, but it is not primarily responsible for the functions mentioned in the question. The cytoskeleton (Choice C) provides structural support to the cell but is not directly involved in protection, communication, or substance passage. Vacuoles (Choice D) are responsible for storage and maintaining turgor pressure but do not play a primary role in the functions specified in the question.

3. Which statement is untrue?

• A. RNA is single-stranded.
• B. RNA contains uracil.
• C. DNA codes for proteins.
• D. DNA cannot be altered.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: DNA can be altered through various processes such as mutations, genetic engineering, and epigenetic modifications. Changes in DNA can occur naturally or through external influences, leading to variations in the genetic code. Therefore, the statement that DNA cannot be altered is untrue. Choices A, B, and C are true statements. RNA is indeed single-stranded, RNA contains uracil instead of thymine, and DNA serves as a template for protein synthesis.

4. Which structure might be described as a core of nucleic acid surrounded by a protein coat?

• A. RNA
• B. Virus
• C. Blue-green alga
• D. Saprophyte

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A virus can be described as a core of nucleic acid (either RNA or DNA) surrounded by a protein coat, known as a capsid. This structure distinguishes viruses from other microorganisms such as blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria), fungi known as saprophytes, or individual RNA molecules. Viruses depend on a host cell to replicate and are considered non-living entities due to their inability to carry out metabolic functions independently.

5. Which organelle organizes protein synthesis?

• A. mitochondrion
• B. nucleus
• C. ribosome
• D. vacuole

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ribosomes are the organelles responsible for organizing protein synthesis. They are the protein factories of the cell, where amino acids are linked together to form proteins. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, responsible for energy production. The nucleus contains the cell's genetic material but does not directly organize protein synthesis. Vacuoles are responsible for storage and maintaining the cell's turgidity.

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