Nursing Elites

1. What is the primary function of DNA polymerase?

• A. Packaging DNA
• B. Replicating DNA
• C. Transcribing DNA
• D. Translating mRNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Replicating DNA. DNA polymerase is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during DNA replication. It adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand based on the template provided by the existing DNA strand. This process ensures that genetic information is accurately copied and passed on to daughter cells during cell division. Option A, Packaging DNA, refers to the coiling and organization of DNA into chromatin, a process involving histones and other proteins. Option C, Transcribing DNA, involves the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template, a process carried out by RNA polymerase. Option D, Translating mRNA, refers to the process of protein synthesis where the information encoded in mRNA is used to assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

2. What is an isotope? For any given element, it is an atom with which of the following?

• A. a different atomic number
• B. a different number of protons
• C. a different number of electrons
• D. a different mass number

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An isotope of an element is an atom with a different number of neutrons, resulting in a different mass number. Isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons (which determines the element's identity) but differ in the number of neutrons, leading to variations in mass numbers. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number. Choice B is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons. Choice C is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of electrons.

3. Why is an extensive network of blood vessels necessary to supply the endocrine glands?

• A. To filter waste from the blood
• B. Because the glands empty directly into the blood
• C. To allow blood to empty into the endocrine system
• D. To filter waste from the endocrine glands

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the blood, which is why they require a rich blood supply to ensure effective hormone distribution throughout the body. The extensive network of blood vessels allows hormones to be quickly transported to target tissues and organs, regulating various physiological functions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because endocrine glands do not filter waste from the blood or the glands themselves. They release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate bodily functions, making a direct connection to the blood supply crucial for their function.

4. What is the basic structural and functional unit of the nervous system?

• A. Axon
• B. Neuron
• C. Dendrite
• D. Synapse

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Neuron. Neurons are indeed the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit signals throughout the nervous system, enabling communication and coordination of various functions within the body. While axons, dendrites, and synapses are all essential components of neurons and neural function, the neuron as a whole is considered the fundamental building block responsible for signal transmission. Choice A, Axon, is incorrect because an axon is a part of a neuron responsible for transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body. Choice C, Dendrite, is incorrect because dendrites are extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. Choice D, Synapse, is incorrect because a synapse is the junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.

5. Which type of chemical reaction produces a salt?

• A. An oxidation reaction
• B. A neutralization reaction
• C. A synthesis reaction
• D. A decomposition reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, a neutralization reaction. In a neutralization reaction, an acid and a base react to produce a salt and water. This process involves the combination of H+ ions from the acid and OH- ions from the base to form water, while the remaining ions combine to form a salt. Therefore, a neutralization reaction is the specific type of chemical reaction that produces a salt. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. An oxidation reaction involves the loss of electrons, a synthesis reaction involves the formation of a compound from simpler substances, and a decomposition reaction involves the breakdown of a compound into simpler substances. None of these reactions directly lead to the production of a salt, making them incorrect choices in this context.

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