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. Which of the following is the term used to represent alternative versions of a gene?

A. Alleles
B. Binary fission
C. Heterozygous
D. Homozygous

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Alleles. Alleles are different versions of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome. This term specifically refers to the different forms of a gene that can exist. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent alternative versions of a gene. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms, while heterozygous and homozygous refer to the genetic makeup of an individual rather than alternative versions of a gene.

3. 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.

4. Which of the following molecules contains the code required for replication?

A. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
B. Transfer RNA (tRNA)
C. Messenger RNA (mRNA)
D. Ribonucleic acid (RNA)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). DNA contains the genetic information essential for replication, ensuring the accurate transmission of genetic material from one generation to the next. Choice B, Transfer RNA (tRNA), is involved in protein synthesis, not replication. Choice C, Messenger RNA (mRNA), carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome but does not contain the code for replication. Choice D, Ribonucleic acid (RNA), is a broader category that includes both mRNA and tRNA, but the specific molecule containing the code required for replication is DNA.

5. 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.