what is the main purpose of biological classification

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the main purpose of biological classification?

A. To create a rigid and unchanging system for labeling organisms
B. To understand the diversity and interconnectedness of life
C. To simplify nature into neat and tidy categories
D. To assign organisms to specific ecological niches

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Biological classification, also known as taxonomy, is the science of categorizing and organizing living organisms based on shared characteristics. The main purpose of biological classification is not to create a rigid and unchanging system (option A) or to simplify nature into neat and tidy categories (option C). Instead, it aims to help us understand the diversity of life on Earth and how different organisms are related to each other. By classifying organisms into groups based on their evolutionary relationships, we can gain insights into the interconnectedness of life and better appreciate the complexity and beauty of the natural world. Assigning organisms to specific ecological niches (option D) is more related to ecological studies rather than biological classification.

2. How do organisms maintain homeostasis?

A. By increasing their body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance.
B. By undergoing biochemical processes and absorbing energy to increase entropy.
C. By undergoing biochemical processes to maintain the order of their external environment.
D. By using free energy and matter via biochemical processes to work against entropy.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Organisms maintain homeostasis by utilizing free energy and matter through biochemical processes to counteract entropy, which helps in preserving internal stability. This process involves maintaining a balance within the organism's internal environment despite external changes, ensuring proper functioning and survival. Choice A is incorrect because increasing body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance alone do not define the comprehensive process of maintaining homeostasis. Choice B is incorrect as absorbing energy to increase entropy goes against the concept of maintaining internal stability. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining the order of the external environment does not directly contribute to the organism's internal stability and balance.

3. In the reaction 2Na + 2H2O â†’ 2NaOH + H2, what is the limiting reactant when 3 moles of sodium react with 2 moles of water?

A. Na
B. H2O
C. NaOH
D. H2

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The balanced chemical equation indicates that 2 moles of sodium react with 2 moles of water to yield 2 moles of sodium hydroxide and 1 mole of hydrogen gas. When 3 moles of sodium react with only 2 moles of water, sodium becomes the limiting reactant as it is present in excess compared to the available water molecules. This situation arises because not all sodium atoms can fully react with the limited amount of water, resulting in sodium being the limiting reactant in this specific case. Choice B (H2O), choice C (NaOH), and choice D (H2) are incorrect as they are not the limiting reactant in the given reaction scenario.

4. In the body, muscle tissue is involved in which of the following functions?

A. Generation of body heat
B. Joint stabilization
C. Maintenance of posture
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Muscle tissue serves multiple functions in the body, including the generation of body heat, joint stabilization, and maintenance of posture. These functions are essential for movement, stability, and overall bodily functions. The correct answer is 'All of the above' because muscle tissue plays a key role in each of these vital functions. The generation of body heat occurs through muscle activity, joint stabilization is achieved by muscles surrounding joints, and maintaining posture involves muscle contraction to support the body's position. Therefore, all the listed functions are interconnected and rely on the proper functioning of muscle tissue.

5. What is the term for the process of a liquid changing into a gas?

A. Evaporation
B. Boiling
C. Condensation
D. Sublimation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Evaporation.' Evaporation is the process by which a liquid changes into a gas at any temperature, while boiling specifically refers to the rapid vaporization of a liquid only at its boiling point. Condensation is the opposite process of gas turning into a liquid, and sublimation is the direct transition from solid to gas without passing through the liquid phase.