where is keratin

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS Practice Test Science

1. Where is keratin found?

A. It is a protein-digesting enzyme released by the stomach.
B. It is released in the neuromuscular junction.
C. It is a protein found in the hypodermis.
D. It is a protein found in hair.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Keratin is a structural protein found in hair, skin, and nails, providing strength and protection. It forms the main structural component of hair, making choice D the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because keratin is not an enzyme released by the stomach, not released in the neuromuscular junction, and not found in the hypodermis. Remember that keratin is primarily associated with structural support in epithelial cells.

2. What term describes a series of muscle contractions that transports food down the digestive tract in a wave-like fashion?

A. digestion
B. deglutition
C. defecation
D. peristalsis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Peristalsis is the correct term for the series of muscle contractions that move food down the digestive tract in a wave-like manner. This process helps propel food through the esophagus, stomach, and intestines, facilitating digestion and nutrient absorption. Digestion (Choice A) refers to the breakdown of food into smaller components, deglutition (Choice B) is the act of swallowing, and defecation (Choice C) is the elimination of waste from the body. Therefore, peristalsis is the most appropriate term to describe the described muscle contractions in the digestive system.

3. Why is biodiversity important for healthy ecosystems?

A. Increases stability and resilience to disturbances
B. Provides stability and resilience to disturbances
C. Slows down nutrient cycling
D. Reduces the number of decomposers

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in a particular area. A diverse ecosystem is better able to withstand and recover from disturbances such as natural disasters, climate change, or human impacts. This is because different species play unique roles in the ecosystem, and a higher level of biodiversity means there are more species available to fulfill these roles. For example, if one species is negatively affected by a disturbance, other species may be able to compensate for its loss, maintaining the overall functioning of the ecosystem. Therefore, biodiversity provides stability and resilience to disturbances, making ecosystems healthier and more sustainable. Choice A is incorrect because biodiversity doesn't increase competition for resources but rather helps in maintaining a balance within the ecosystem. Choice C is incorrect as biodiversity does not slow down nutrient cycling; in fact, it enhances nutrient cycling by ensuring a variety of species involved in the process. Choice D is incorrect as biodiversity does not reduce the number of decomposers but instead supports a diverse community of decomposers that are essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems.

4. Which biome is characterized by cold temperatures, permafrost, and coniferous trees?

A. Tundra
B. Desert
C. Rainforest
D. Savanna

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A) Tundra: This biome is characterized by cold temperatures, permafrost (permanently frozen subsoil), and vegetation such as mosses, lichens, and coniferous trees like spruce and fir. The tundra is found in high latitudes near the Arctic Circle and high altitudes in mountainous regions. It is a cold and harsh environment where the ground remains frozen for a significant part of the year. The coniferous trees in this biome are adapted to survive in extreme cold conditions. B) Desert: Deserts are characterized by low precipitation levels and high temperatures, with sparse vegetation adapted to arid conditions. C) Rainforest: Rainforests are characterized by high levels of rainfall, warm temperatures, and dense vegetation with a variety of plant and animal species. D) Savanna: Savannas are tropical grasslands with scattered trees and shrubs, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. They have a different climate pattern compared to the cold temperatures and permafrost found in the tundra biome. In this case, the description of cold temperatures, permafrost, and coniferous trees aligns most closely with the characteristics of the tundra biome, making option A the correct answer.

5. Which of the following is NOT a typical component of healthy semen?

A. Sperm
B. Fructose (sugar)
C. Prostaglandins
D. Urine

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Healthy semen is composed of sperm, fructose (sugar), and prostaglandins. Urine is not a typical component of semen. While semen is ejaculated during sexual activity, urine is expelled through a separate pathway in the male reproductive system. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Urine.' Choices A, B, and C are all components found in healthy semen.