Nursing Elites

1. What type of energy does a stretched rubber band possess?

• A. Kinetic energy
• B. Potential energy
• C. Thermal energy
• D. Mechanical energy

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a rubber band is stretched, it stores potential energy due to its position or configuration. This potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy when the rubber band is released and returns to its original shape. Therefore, the correct answer is potential energy, as the energy is stored in the stretched rubber band and can be released upon returning to its original state. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because kinetic energy is associated with motion, thermal energy is related to heat, and mechanical energy is a broader category that includes both potential and kinetic energy.

2. What is the primary purpose of control rods within a nuclear reactor?

• A. Reflecting neutrons back into the core
• B. Absorbing excess neutrons to control criticality
• C. Moderating the velocity of neutrons
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor is to absorb excess neutrons to control criticality. When inserted into the reactor core, control rods absorb neutrons, reducing the number available for sustaining the fission chain reaction. This action allows operators to manage the reactor power levels and prevent overheating or runaway reactions. Reflecting neutrons back into the core and moderating neutron velocity are not the primary functions of control rods in a nuclear reactor. Choice A is incorrect because control rods do not reflect neutrons back into the core but absorb them. Choice C is incorrect as the moderation of neutron velocity is typically achieved by other materials like a moderator (e.g., water, graphite) rather than control rods. Choice D is incorrect as control rods do not reflect neutrons or moderate neutron velocity, making it an incorrect option.

3. Which group of elements is known for their reactivity and ability to form strong bonds with other elements?

• A. Noble gases
• B. Halogens
• C. Alkali metals
• D. Transition metals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Halogens are a group of elements in the periodic table known for their high reactivity and ability to form strong bonds with other elements. They possess seven valence electrons, requiring only one more electron to achieve a stable electron configuration, making them highly reactive. Halogens readily form compounds with other elements by gaining an electron to achieve a full outer shell, resulting in the formation of strong covalent bonds. Noble gases (option A), on the other hand, are known for their inertness and stable electron configurations, making them unlikely to form bonds. Alkali metals (option C) are highly reactive but do not form bonds as strong as halogens. Transition metals (option D) are recognized for their variable oxidation states and ability to create complex ions but are not as reactive as halogens when it comes to bond formation.

4. What is the half-life of a radioactive isotope, and how does it relate to its decay rate?

• A. The time it takes for half of the initial sample to decay.
• B. The time it takes for all of the sample to decay.
• C. The rate at which new isotopes are created.
• D. The energy released during decay.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The half-life of a radioactive isotope is the time it takes for half of the initial sample to decay. After one half-life, half of the radioactive atoms have decayed. The decay rate, however, refers to the rate at which radioactive atoms decay, which is not directly related to the half-life. Choice B is incorrect because it does not correctly define the half-life. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the creation of new isotopes, not the decay process. Choice D is incorrect as it describes the energy released during decay, which is not the same as the concept of half-life.

5. What is the ultimate end product of glucose breakdown in glycolysis?

• A. ATP
• B. NADPH
• C. Pyruvic acid
• D. Oxygen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The ultimate end product of glucose breakdown in glycolysis is pyruvic acid. During glycolysis, glucose is broken down into pyruvic acid through a series of enzymatic reactions. ATP is produced as an energy carrier during glycolysis, but it is not the final end product. NADPH is not a direct product of glycolysis; it is mainly produced in the pentose phosphate pathway. Oxygen is not a product of glycolysis but is used as an electron acceptor in the electron transport chain of cellular respiration.

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