which cell structure is responsible for efficiently packaging dna into a small volume to fit into the nucleus of a cell and protect the dna structure

HESI RN

Biology Test

1. Which cell structure is responsible for efficiently packaging DNA into a small volume to fit into the nucleus of a cell and protect the DNA structure and sequence?

A. Golgi apparatus
B. Chromatin
C. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
D. Mitochondria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Chromatin. Chromatin is responsible for packaging DNA into a more compact, dense shape to fit into the nucleus of a cell. This compact packaging helps protect the DNA structure and regulate gene expression. The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid metabolism and detoxification. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, producing energy in the form of ATP.

2. The term pleiotropy is best defined as which of the following?

A. A situation in which one gene remains unexpressed
B. One gene influencing multiple, seemingly unrelated phenotypic traits
C. Two genes affected by a single allele
D. A condition in which multiple genes are missing

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Pleiotropy is best defined as one gene influencing multiple, seemingly unrelated phenotypic traits. This phenomenon showcases the multifunctionality of genes, where a single gene can have effects on various aspects of an organism's phenotype. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately capture the concept of pleiotropy. Option A refers to gene expression, not pleiotropy. Option C describes genetic interactions but not in the context of pleiotropy. Option D talks about missing genes, which is unrelated to the definition of pleiotropy.

3. Where can ribosomes be found inside a cell?

A. Attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and in the cytoplasm
B. Within the cellular membrane
C. Attached to the Golgi apparatus and in the cytoplasm
D. Within the nucleus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Ribosomes can be found attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or free-floating in the cytoplasm. The correct answer is A because ribosomes are responsible for synthesizing proteins and are commonly found on the ER or in the cytoplasm. Choice B is incorrect because ribosomes are not typically located within the cellular membrane. Choice C is incorrect as ribosomes are not attached to the Golgi apparatus; instead, they are involved in protein synthesis. Choice D is incorrect as ribosomes are not found within the nucleus but rather in the cytoplasm or attached to the ER.

4. Phagocytes in the immune system are responsible for the biological action of which of the following?

A. Secreting
B. Consuming
C. Altering
D. Building

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Consuming. Phagocytes are cells that engulf and digest pathogens, dead cells, and other harmful particles, playing a crucial role in the immune system's defense. Phagocytes do not secrete substances, alter particles, or build structures; their primary function is to consume and eliminate harmful entities.

5. The Punnett square shows that one parent carries the recessive gene for a cleft chin (c) while the other parent does not. What percentage of the parents' offspring is predicted to have a cleft chin?

A. 25%
B. 50%
C. 0%
D. 75%

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 0%. If one parent carries the recessive gene for a cleft chin while the other parent does not, none of the offspring will express the recessive phenotype. This is because in order for a child to have a cleft chin, they would need to inherit the recessive gene from both parents. Therefore, although the offspring could be carriers of the gene, none are predicted to have a cleft chin. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the presence of the recessive gene in one parent and its absence in the other would not result in any offspring showing the cleft chin trait.