what is the shape of the dna molecule

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the shape of the DNA molecule?

A. Linear
B. Circular
C. Double helix
D. Straight chain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Double helix. The shape of the DNA molecule is a double helix, a structure first described by James Watson and Francis Crick in 1953. This shape consists of two strands twisted around each other in a spiral. The double helix structure allows DNA to be compactly stored within the cell nucleus and provides stability to the molecule. Options (A) Linear, (B) Circular, and (D) Straight chain are incorrect as they do not accurately represent the shape of the DNA molecule. DNA is not linear but rather forms a twisted double helix; it is not circular like a ring but has a spiral structure, and it is not a straight chain but a twisted ladder-like structure.

2. The term 'symbiotic relationship' describes an interaction between two organisms where:

A. One organism benefits and the other is unaffected
B. Both organisms are harmed by the interaction
C. One organism benefits and the other is negatively impacted
D. Both organisms benefit from the interaction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In a symbiotic relationship, both organisms involved benefit from the interaction. This mutually beneficial relationship can take different forms, such as mutualism where both organisms benefit, commensalism where one organism benefits and the other is unaffected, or parasitism where one organism benefits at the expense of the other. In this case, the term 'symbiotic relationship' specifically refers to a scenario where both organisms derive some form of benefit from their interaction. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not accurately describe a symbiotic relationship. In symbiosis, both organisms benefit, making option D the correct choice.

3. During a healthy heartbeat, the P wave on an ECG represents

A. The repolarization of the ventricles.
B. The electrical conduction through the AV node.
C. The contraction phase of the ventricles (systole).
D. The depolarization of the atria.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The P wave on an ECG represents the depolarization of the atria. This electrical activity initiates the contraction of the atria, allowing blood to be pumped into the ventricles. The P wave is the first positive deflection seen on the ECG and signifies the beginning of atrial depolarization, which is a critical step in the cardiac cycle. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Option A (The repolarization of the ventricles) is represented by the T wave on the ECG. Option B (The electrical conduction through the AV node) is not represented by the P wave but rather by the PR interval on the ECG. Option C (The contraction phase of the ventricles (systole)) is more related to the QRS complex on the ECG, which represents ventricular depolarization and contraction.

4. What initiates the process of coagulation?

A. When blood changes from a gel to liquid form.
B. Begins instantly after a blood vessel has been damaged.
C. A simple single-phase response of the blood drying upon contact with the air.
D. Also known as clotting, or the formation of fibrin.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The process of coagulation, also known as blood clotting, begins instantly after a blood vessel has been damaged. When a blood vessel is injured, the body quickly responds by initiating a cascade of reactions to form a blood clot, which helps to stop bleeding and promote healing. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because coagulation does not occur just when blood changes from a gel to liquid form, it is not a response of blood drying upon contact with air, and it is not simply the formation of fibrin. The primary trigger for coagulation is vascular injury.

5. Which type of muscle tissue is found in the walls of blood vessels and helps regulate blood flow?

A. Skeletal muscle
B. Smooth muscle
C. Cardiac muscle
D. Striated muscle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Smooth muscle is the correct answer. It is found in the walls of blood vessels and helps regulate blood flow by contracting and relaxing to adjust the diameter of the vessels. Skeletal muscle, found attached to bones, is responsible for voluntary movements and is not typically found in blood vessel walls. Cardiac muscle is specific to the heart and responsible for pumping blood, not found in blood vessel walls. Striated muscle, another term for skeletal muscle, is characterized by its striped appearance under a microscope but is not present in blood vessel walls.