Nursing Elites

1. What is the function of ribosomes?

• A. Packaging and transporting proteins
• B. Storing genetic material
• C. Controlling cell division
• D. Synthesizing proteins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Synthesizing proteins. Ribosomes are cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis. They read the messenger RNA (mRNA) and utilize the information to assemble amino acids into proteins through a process known as translation. Choice A, packaging and transporting proteins, is incorrect as this function is typically performed by the Golgi apparatus and vesicles. Choice B, storing genetic material, is incorrect as genetic material is usually stored in the nucleus in the form of DNA. Choice C, controlling cell division, is incorrect as this function is primarily regulated by the cell cycle checkpoints and specific proteins involved in cell cycle regulation.

2. Which of the following characteristics is part of a person's genotype?

• A. Brown eyes that appear hazel in the sunlight
• B. The CFTR gene, which causes cystic fibrosis
• C. Black hair that grows rapidly
• D. Being a fast runner

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. A genotype refers to a person's genetic makeup, which includes specific genes like the CFTR gene responsible for cystic fibrosis. Genes are the units of heredity and are part of an individual's genotype, influencing various traits and characteristics. Choice A, brown eyes that appear hazel in the sunlight, refers to a phenotype, which is the observable characteristics resulting from the interaction of genes and the environment. Choice C, black hair that grows rapidly, also describes a phenotype rather than a genotype. Choice D, being a fast runner, is a trait influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but it does not directly relate to a specific gene in the genotype.

3. The number of protons in an atom determines its:

• A. Mass number
• B. Atomic number
• C. Atomic weight
• D. Valence electron count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The number of protons in an atom is known as the atomic number. The atomic number uniquely identifies an element and determines its position on the periodic table. It is a fundamental property of an element and directly influences its chemical behavior and interactions. The mass number, on the other hand, is the sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus of an atom, not just protons. Atomic weight is the average mass of an element's isotopes considering their relative abundance, not solely based on the number of protons. Valence electron count refers to the number of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom, influencing its ability to form bonds and participate in chemical reactions, but it is not determined by the number of protons in the atom.

4. Which class of hormones is most likely to be released after a serious injury?

• A. Acetylcholine
• B. Oxytocin
• C. Luteinizing hormone
• D. Endorphins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Endorphins are the class of hormones most likely to be released after a serious injury. Endorphins are the body's natural pain relievers and are produced in response to stress or pain, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote a sense of well-being. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter, not a hormone. Oxytocin is mainly involved in childbirth and lactation. Luteinizing hormone is involved in reproductive functions such as ovulation. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect in the context of a hormone release following a serious injury.

5. How can a single gene mutation lead to multiple phenotypes depending on the organism?

• A. Pleiotropy describes the effect of one gene influencing multiple seemingly unrelated traits.
• B. Epigenetics involves environmental factors modifying gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.
• C. Genetic drift refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population.
• D. Gene regulation controls the timing and level of gene expression within an organism.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A single gene mutation can lead to multiple phenotypes through pleiotropy, where one gene influences diverse traits or functions in an organism. This phenomenon occurs when the mutated gene affects different biochemical pathways, developmental processes, or cellular functions, resulting in a cascade of downstream effects that manifest as a variety of phenotypic outcomes. Choice B, epigenetics, involves modifications in gene expression influenced by environmental factors without altering the DNA sequence, which is not directly related to the question about single gene mutations causing multiple phenotypes. Choice C, genetic drift, refers to random changes in allele frequencies within a population, which is unrelated to the impact of a single gene mutation on multiple phenotypes. Choice D, gene regulation, focuses on controlling the timing and level of gene expression within an organism, which is not directly addressing how a single gene mutation can lead to diverse phenotypes.

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