HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology Practice Test 2024
1. What is the main function of the ribosomes in the cell?
- A. DNA Replication
- B. Protein Synthesis
- C. Lipid Breakdown
- D. Cell Division
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Protein Synthesis. Ribosomes are cellular organelles responsible for synthesizing proteins. This process is crucial for various cellular functions. Choice A, DNA Replication, is incorrect as ribosomes are not involved in this process. Choice C, Lipid Breakdown, is also incorrect as ribosomes do not play a role in lipid metabolism. Choice D, Cell Division, is incorrect as ribosomes are not directly involved in the process of cell division.
2. The procedure to focus an image using a compound microscope involves
- A. Adjusting the coarse adjustment each time a new magnification is selected
- B. Adjusting the fine adjustment each time a new magnification is selected
- C. Adjusting the stage each time a new magnification is selected
- D. All of the above
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When using a compound microscope, it is essential to adjust the fine adjustment knob each time you switch to a new magnification level. The fine adjustment knob allows for precise focusing on the specimen at different magnifications, ensuring a clear and sharp image. The coarse adjustment knob is typically used only at the lower magnification settings to bring the image into view roughly. Adjusting the stage may be necessary based on the size and thickness of the specimen, but it does not need to be done every time a new magnification is selected. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it focuses on the key aspect of precise focusing during magnification changes.
3. What happens to messenger RNA when it reaches the cytoplasm?
- A. It attaches to a ribosome.
- B. It unzips, exposing nitrogen bases.
- C. It pairs with the DNA bases.
- D. It pulls free of the DNA strand.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Messenger RNA (mRNA) carries genetic information from the DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes in the cytoplasm. When mRNA reaches the cytoplasm, it attaches to a ribosome. The ribosome functions as the site for protein synthesis through translation, where the genetic code carried by mRNA is read and translated into a specific sequence of amino acids. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because mRNA does not unzip, expose nitrogen bases, pair with DNA bases, or pull free of the DNA strand in the cytoplasm. The primary function of mRNA in the cytoplasm is to serve as a template for protein synthesis by binding to ribosomes.
4. Which is not one of the raw materials needed for cellular respiration?
- A. ADP
- B. Phosphate
- C. Water
- D. Glucose
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Water is not one of the raw materials needed for cellular respiration. The essential raw materials for cellular respiration include glucose (which is broken down to produce energy), oxygen, and ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and phosphate (which are necessary for the formation of ATP, the energy currency of cells). While water is crucial for many cellular processes and makes up a significant portion of cells, it is not directly involved as a raw material in the cellular respiration process.
5. What is another name for the light-independent reaction in plants?
- A. Photosynthesis
- B. Calvin cycle
- C. Germination
- D. Phosphorus cycle
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The light-independent reaction in plants is also known as the Calvin cycle. This biochemical pathway, named after Melvin Calvin who discovered it, takes place in the stroma of chloroplasts and is responsible for converting carbon dioxide into glucose using ATP and NADPH generated during the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. The Calvin cycle does not directly require light to function, hence the alternative name as the light-independent reaction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Photosynthesis is the overall process of converting light energy into chemical energy, which includes both light-dependent and light-independent reactions. Germination is the process where a seed sprouts into a new plant. The phosphorus cycle is the biogeochemical cycle that describes the movement of phosphorus through the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.
Similar Questions
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