Nursing Elites

1. What is the half-life of a radioactive isotope, and how does it relate to its decay rate?

• A. The time it takes for half of the initial sample to decay.
• B. The time it takes for all of the sample to decay.
• C. The rate at which new isotopes are created.
• D. The energy released during decay.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The half-life of a radioactive isotope is the time it takes for half of the initial sample to decay. After one half-life, half of the radioactive atoms have decayed. The decay rate, however, refers to the rate at which radioactive atoms decay, which is not directly related to the half-life. Choice B is incorrect because it does not correctly define the half-life. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the creation of new isotopes, not the decay process. Choice D is incorrect as it describes the energy released during decay, which is not the same as the concept of half-life.

2. Which of the following is NOT a function of the endocrine system?

• A. Regulating growth and development
• B. Maintaining blood sugar levels
• C. Controlling mood and emotions
• D. Facilitating digestion through muscle contractions

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The endocrine system is responsible for producing hormones that regulate various bodily functions such as growth, metabolism, mood, and more. Facilitating digestion through muscle contractions is primarily the role of the muscular and nervous systems, not the endocrine system. Therefore, option D is the correct answer as it does not align with the functions typically attributed to the endocrine system. Choices A, B, and C are functions that are indeed associated with the endocrine system, making them incorrect answers in the context of this question.

3. A guitar string vibrates at a fundamental frequency of 440 Hz. What is the frequency of the second harmonic (first overtone)?

• A. 220 Hz
• B. 440 Hz
• C. 880 Hz
• D. 1760 Hz

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The second harmonic (first overtone) is twice the frequency of the fundamental frequency. Therefore, the frequency of the second harmonic is 440 Hz * 2 = 880 Hz. The second harmonic has a frequency that is one octave higher than the fundamental frequency, representing the first overtone of the vibrating string. Choice A (220 Hz) is incorrect as it represents half the fundamental frequency and is the second harmonic, not the first overtone. Choice B (440 Hz) is the fundamental frequency itself. Choice D (1760 Hz) is the frequency of the fourth harmonic, not the second harmonic.

4. Which of the following is NOT a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection?

• A. Mutations in genes
• B. Differential survival and reproduction based on traits
• C. Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out)
• D. Competition for resources in an environment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Mutations in genes can introduce new genetic variations into a population, which can be acted upon by natural selection. B) Differential survival and reproduction based on traits is a key component of natural selection, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation. C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics, also known as Lamarckism, is not a mechanism of evolution by natural selection. Traits acquired during an individual's lifetime (such as strong muscles from working out) are not passed on to offspring. D) Competition for resources in an environment can drive natural selection by favoring individuals with traits that help them better compete for limited resources. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out), as it is not a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection.

5. What is the initial step of the scientific method?

• A. construct a hypothesis
• B. make observations
• C. analyze data
• D. form a question

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The first step of the scientific method is to make observations. This involves collecting data and information about a specific phenomenon or problem. Observations serve as the basis for developing a question to be explored further. Forming a hypothesis (Choice A) comes after making observations, as the hypothesis is an educated guess to explain the observations. Analyzing data (Choice C) occurs later in the scientific method after data has been collected and experiments conducted. Forming a question (Choice D) is a crucial step but typically follows observations in the scientific process.

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