when plants do not receive enough water their photosynthetic rate drops this is because

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

1. When plants do not receive enough water, their photosynthetic rate drops. This is because:

A. water is a raw material for the light reactions in photosynthesis
B. carbon dioxide is not available
C. water provides the carbon atoms used to make sugar
D. not enough oxygen is produced to keep fermentation running

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When plants do not receive enough water, their photosynthetic rate drops because water is a raw material required for the light reactions in photosynthesis. In the light reactions, water is split to provide electrons, which are then utilized to produce energy carriers used in converting carbon dioxide into glucose during the Calvin cycle. Therefore, without sufficient water, the light reactions cannot proceed effectively, ultimately leading to a decrease in photosynthetic rate. Choice B is incorrect because carbon dioxide is a separate raw material needed for the Calvin cycle, not the light reactions. Choice C is incorrect as water provides electrons, not carbon atoms, for photosynthesis. Choice D is incorrect because fermentation is not directly related to photosynthesis; oxygen is produced during photosynthesis, not fermentation.

2. A cell that does not contain membrane-bound organelles or a defined nucleus would be classified as:

A. eukaryotic
B. embryonic
C. prokaryotic
D. symbiotic

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A cell that does not contain membrane-bound organelles or a defined nucleus is classified as prokaryotic. Prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus, and their genetic material is typically found in a region called the nucleoid. Examples of prokaryotic organisms include bacteria and archaea. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, contain membrane-bound organelles and a true nucleus, distinguishing them from prokaryotic cells. Embryonic and symbiotic classifications are not directly related to the presence of organelles or a nucleus in cells.

3. What event occurs during telophase?

A. The nuclear envelope disappears.
B. Organelles double in number.
C. Chromosomes separate.
D. Two nuclei are formed.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During telophase, the final stage of mitosis, the separated chromosomes reach opposite poles of the cell. At this stage, a new nuclear envelope forms around each set of chromosomes, creating two distinct nuclei. This marks the completion of cell division. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the disappearance of the nuclear envelope typically occurs during prophase, organelles do not double in number during telophase, and chromosomes separate during anaphase, not telophase.

4. Which of the following are considered the most important molecules in biology?

A. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and nucleic acids
B. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and calcium
C. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and sulfur
D. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and iron

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and nucleic acids are considered the most important molecules in biology. Carbohydrates are essential for providing energy, lipids for storing energy and forming cell membranes, proteins for various structural and functional roles, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) for storing genetic information. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins are crucial biomolecules, calcium, sulfur, and iron are not considered among the most important molecules in biology.

5. How do green plants use nitrates in the nitrogen cycle?

A. To synthesize proteins
B. To store food
C. To decompose ammonia
D. To break down nitrites

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Green plants use nitrates in the nitrogen cycle to synthesize proteins. Nitrogen is an essential component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Plants take up nitrates from the soil through their roots and incorporate nitrogen into their proteins through the process of protein biosynthesis. This helps in their growth, development, and overall health. Choice B, 'To store food,' is incorrect because nitrates are primarily used for protein synthesis, not food storage. Choice C, 'To decompose ammonia,' is incorrect as plants do not decompose ammonia but rather utilize it through nitrification. Choice D, 'To break down nitrites,' is incorrect as plants typically convert nitrites into nitrates through a process called nitrate assimilation for protein synthesis.