Nursing Elites

1. What substance is required to drive the sliding filament process during muscle contraction?

• A. ATP
• B. Hormone
• C. Potassium
• D. Water

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The substance required to drive the sliding filament process during muscle contraction is ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP provides the energy needed for muscle contraction by enabling the myosin heads to bind to actin and generate force. This energy release drives the sliding of the filaments, causing muscle fibers to contract. Hormones, potassium, and water do not directly drive the sliding filament process in muscle contraction. Hormones are signaling molecules that regulate various physiological processes but do not directly provide energy for muscle contraction. Potassium is an electrolyte important for nerve and muscle function but is not the primary driver of the sliding filament process. Water is essential for overall hydration and bodily functions but does not directly participate in the muscle contraction process.

2. A ball is thrown upwards. Which of the following statements is TRUE about its potential energy and kinetic energy at the peak of its trajectory?

• A. Both potential and kinetic energy are zero.
• B. Potential energy is maximum and kinetic energy is minimum.
• C. Potential energy is minimum and kinetic energy is maximum.
• D. Both potential and kinetic energy remain constant.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: At the peak of its trajectory, the ball momentarily stops moving before falling back down. This means its kinetic energy is at a minimum because it has come to a stop. At the same time, its potential energy is at a maximum because it is at the highest point in its trajectory, where it has the most potential to fall and convert that potential energy into kinetic energy as it descends. Choice A is incorrect because at the peak, the ball still has potential energy due to its height. Choice C is incorrect because kinetic energy is at a minimum when the ball is momentarily at rest. Choice D is incorrect because the energy conversion between potential and kinetic energy occurs at different points in the trajectory.

3. The fossil record shows that dinosaurs with feathers existed millions of years before birds. This is evidence for

• A. Convergent evolution (unrelated organisms evolving similar traits)
• B. Divergent evolution (related organisms evolving different traits)
• C. Coevolution (two species influencing each other's evolution)
• D. The extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The fossil record indicates that dinosaurs had feathers before birds, suggesting convergent evolution. Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated organisms independently evolve similar traits to adapt to similar environmental pressures. In this case, both dinosaurs and birds developed feathers for flight or insulation purposes, even though they are not closely related. This evidence supports the concept of convergent evolution rather than divergent evolution, coevolution, or the extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as it best explains the scenario where dinosaurs with feathers existed before birds, showcasing the concept of unrelated organisms evolving similar traits independently.

4. What is the approximate composition of blood?

• A. 45% plasma, 55% formed elements
• B. 55% plasma, 45% formed elements
• C. 55% water, 45% blood cells
• D. 45% water, 55% plasma

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Blood is composed of approximately 55% plasma (mostly water with proteins, electrolytes, and nutrients) and 45% formed elements (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). Choice B is the correct answer. Choice A is incorrect as it reverses the percentages. Choice C is incorrect because it incorrectly states that blood cells make up 45% of blood, while they are part of the formed elements along with platelets. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests that water makes up 45% of blood, which is not accurate.

5. What are the tiny contractile units within muscle cells called?

• A. Myocytes
• B. Myofibrils
• C. Sarcomeres
• D. Tendons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the smallest contractile units within muscle cells. They consist of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins, which interact to produce muscle contractions. Myocytes are the entire muscle cells, myofibrils are bundles of protein filaments found within muscle cells, and tendons are tough connective tissues that connect muscles to bones. Therefore, sarcomeres specifically represent the contractile units responsible for muscle contraction, making them the correct answer in this context.

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