what is the main function of the cell membrane
Logo

Nursing Elites

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test 2024

1. What is the main function of the cell membrane?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the cell membrane is communication. It acts as a barrier that regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining cellular homeostasis. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because energy production occurs in the mitochondria, protein synthesis takes place in the ribosomes, and waste removal is primarily handled by the lysosomes and other organelles within the cell.

2. During protein synthesis, what process creates a complementary strand of RNA from a DNA template?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Transcription.' During protein synthesis, transcription is the process that creates a complementary RNA strand from a DNA template. This process involves the synthesis of mRNA using DNA as a template. Choice B, 'Translation,' is incorrect as it is the process where the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific polypeptide chain. Choice C, 'Transformation,' is not related to the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template. Choice D, 'Replication,' is the process of copying DNA to produce an identical DNA molecule, not RNA.

3. Which organelle is responsible for making proteins?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Ribosomes are the organelles responsible for protein synthesis within the cell. They are the sites where amino acids are linked together to form proteins based on the instructions carried by mRNA (messenger RNA). Ribosomes can be found free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, and they play a crucial role in translating genetic information into proteins. Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis, lysosomes are involved in digestion and waste removal, and mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell responsible for energy production through cellular respiration. Therefore, the ribosome is the correct organelle responsible for making proteins.

4. Which organelle contains the genetic material of the cell?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Nucleus.' The nucleus is the organelle that contains the cell's genetic material, which is the DNA. The genetic material in the nucleus controls the cell's activities and plays a crucial role in inheritance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging of proteins; ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis; and endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein and lipid synthesis and transportation, but none of them contain the genetic material of the cell.

5. How is mitosis different from meiosis?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Meiosis is the type of cell division that creates cells with half the number of chromosomes compared to the parent cell. This is essential for sexual reproduction as it ensures that when the sex cells (sperm and egg) combine during fertilization, the resulting offspring has the correct number of chromosomes. In contrast, mitosis results in two identical daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Choice A is incorrect because mitosis is responsible for the division of body cells, not sex cells. Choice C is incorrect because telophase is a phase that occurs in both mitosis and meiosis. Choice D is incorrect because spermatogenesis and oogenesis involve meiosis, not mitosis.

Similar Questions

Which of the following statements about the respiratory system is true?
Which light color would be most effective for growing green plants indoors?
What organelle do plant cells have that functions as storage, waste disposal, and protection?
Which one of the following best describes the function of a cell membrane?
Muscles are connected to bones by ______, and bones are connected to each other by ______.

Access More Features

HESI A2 Basic
$49/ 30 days

  • 3,000 Questions with answers
  • 30 days access

HESI A2 Premium
$99/ 90 days

  • Actual HESI A2 Questions
  • 3,000 questions with answers
  • 90 days access

Other Courses