Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. What is a major structure of the limbic system?

• A. Brainstem
• B. Spinal cord
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Cerebral cortex

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is a significant structure of the limbic system responsible for regulating various functions such as emotions, autonomic functions, and hormone production. It plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and orchestrating responses to stress and emotional stimuli. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The brainstem, although a vital part of the brain, is not a major structure of the limbic system. The spinal cord is not part of the limbic system; it is primarily involved in transmitting sensory and motor information between the brain and the rest of the body. The cerebral cortex is responsible for higher cognitive functions but is not a major structure within the limbic system.

3. What is the term for the involuntary muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract?

• A. Segmentation
• B. Peristalsis
• C. Chyme
• D. Emulsification

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term for the involuntary muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. These contractions help push food along the digestive system, facilitating digestion and absorption of nutrients. Segmentation, on the other hand, refers to the mixing and breaking down of food in the intestines, not the movement of food. Chyme is the semi-fluid mass of partially digested food in the stomach and small intestine, not the muscle contractions. Emulsification is the process of breaking down fat globules into smaller droplets to aid in digestion, not the movement of food through the digestive tract. Therefore, peristalsis is the most appropriate term for this function.

4. Which structure in the digestive system absorbs the most nutrients?

• A. Stomach
• B. Small intestine
• C. Large intestine
• D. Esophagus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site where the absorption of nutrients from digested food occurs. Its large surface area, specialized cells, and villi play key roles in maximizing nutrient absorption, making it the structure in the digestive system that absorbs the most nutrients. The stomach's main function is to break down food with acid and enzymes, not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach and does not play a role in nutrient absorption.

5. Which structure allows for the selective passage of materials into and out of the cell?

• A. DNA
• B. Protein
• C. Carbohydrate
• D. Phospholipid bilayer

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The phospholipid bilayer is a crucial component of the cell membrane, surrounding the cell and regulating the passage of materials into and out of the cell. Its structure enables it to be selectively permeable, controlling which substances can pass through. DNA, proteins, and carbohydrates are essential molecules in the cell but do not directly govern the passage of materials like the phospholipid bilayer does. Therefore, the correct answer is the phospholipid bilayer.

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