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. During which stage of mitosis does the nuclear envelope begin to disappear and the chromosomes start attaching to the spindle forming along the cell's axis?
- A. Prometaphase
- B. Metaphase
- C. Anaphase
- D. Prophase
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A, Prometaphase. During prometaphase, the nuclear envelope disintegrates, and chromosomes start attaching to spindle fibers. In metaphase, chromosomes align in the middle of the cell. Anaphase is characterized by the separation of sister chromatids, and prophase involves the condensation of chromosomes and the beginning of spindle formation.
3. What is the smallest and most basic unit of matter?
- A. Micromolecule
- B. Atom
- C. Organelle
- D. Molecule
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, Atom. An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element. Choice A, Micromolecule, is incorrect because molecules are composed of atoms bonded together, making them larger than individual atoms. Choice C, Organelle, is incorrect as organelles are structures within cells, not the basic unit of matter. Choice D, Molecule, is incorrect as molecules are made up of atoms bonded together, so they are not the smallest unit of matter.
4. Prophase is the first stage of mitosis. Which of the following best describes chromosomes during this stage?
- A. They are gathered on either side of the separating cell
- B. They are all aligned along the metaphase plate
- C. They are attached to the spindle
- D. They are visibly separate
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible as distinct structures under a microscope. Choice A is incorrect as chromosomes are not gathered on either side of the separating cell during prophase. Choice B is incorrect because chromosomes align along the metaphase plate during the subsequent stage, metaphase. Choice C is incorrect as chromosomes become attached to the spindle fibers during prometaphase, the stage following prophase.
5. What must first occur before a cell can be divided to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms?
- A. RNA replication
- B. DNA replication
- C. Gene replication
- D. Chromosome replication
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: DNA replication. Before a cell can divide to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms, DNA replication must occur. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while RNA, genes, and chromosomes are essential components of cell division, DNA replication is the specific process that must first occur to ensure accurate transmission of genetic material.
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