what is the function of the cell membrane

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS version 7 quizlet science

1. What is the function of the cell membrane?

A. To protect the cell and control what enters and exits
B. To store energy
C. To produce proteins
D. To synthesize lipids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, serves as a protective barrier for the cell, separating the internal environment of the cell from the external environment. It is selectively permeable, meaning it controls the passage of substances in and out of the cell. This regulation of what enters and exits the cell is crucial for maintaining the cell's internal environment and ensuring proper functioning. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because storing energy, producing proteins, and synthesizing lipids are functions carried out by other cellular structures such as mitochondria, ribosomes, and endoplasmic reticulum, respectively, not the cell membrane.

2. Approximately how many muscles are in the human body?

A. 100
B. 200
C. 600
D. Over 600

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The human body has over 600 muscles responsible for various functions like movement, stability, and posture. These muscles work together enabling us to perform daily activities and are crucial for our overall health and well-being. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the human body has far more than 100, 200, or 600 muscles. Option D, 'Over 600,' is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the approximate number of muscles in the human body.

3. What does the phrase 'survival of the fittest' refer to?

A. Organisms with the most complex anatomical structures are more likely to survive and reproduce.
B. Organisms that demonstrate the best adaptations to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproduction.
C. All organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success regardless of their traits.
D. Only the strongest and most aggressive individuals within a population will survive and reproduce.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The phrase 'survival of the fittest' is often associated with the concept of natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin. Natural selection is the process by which organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to the next generation. This process does not necessarily favor the most complex anatomical structures (option A) or the strongest and most aggressive individuals (option D). Instead, it emphasizes the importance of adaptations that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. Option C is incorrect because natural selection results in differential reproductive success based on an organism's traits, meaning that not all organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success.

4. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

A. To fight infection
B. To transport oxygen
C. To regulate body functions through hormones
D. To break down food

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To regulate body functions through hormones.' The endocrine system is responsible for producing and secreting hormones that help regulate various body functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and mood. It does not primarily function to fight infection (A), transport oxygen (B), or break down food (D). While the immune system fights infection, the respiratory system transports oxygen, and the digestive system breaks down food, the main role of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis by coordinating and controlling bodily functions through the release of hormones.

5. What is the term for a solution that has exactly the same concentration of solute as another solution?

A. Saturated solution
B. Unsaturated solution
C. Isotonic solution
D. Concentrated solution

Correct answer: C

Rationale: An isotonic solution is a solution that has the same concentration of solute as another solution. When cells are placed in an isotonic solution, there is no net movement of water across the cell membrane, maintaining equilibrium. Choice A, a saturated solution, refers to a solution that contains the maximum amount of solute that can be dissolved at a given temperature. Choice B, an unsaturated solution, is a solution that contains less solute than a saturated solution under the same conditions. Choice D, a concentrated solution, is a solution with a high amount of solute compared to the solvent.