HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology 2024
1. Which structure might be described as a core of nucleic acid surrounded by a protein coat?
- A. RNA
- B. Virus
- C. Blue-green alga
- D. Saprophyte
Correct answer: B
Rationale: A virus can be described as a core of nucleic acid (either RNA or DNA) surrounded by a protein coat, known as a capsid. This structure distinguishes viruses from other microorganisms such as blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria), fungi known as saprophytes, or individual RNA molecules. Viruses depend on a host cell to replicate and are considered non-living entities due to their inability to carry out metabolic functions independently.
2. In the scientific process, which of the following is a statement or explanation of certain events or happenings?
- A. hypothesis
- B. observation
- C. experiment
- D. conclusion
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A hypothesis is a statement or explanation of certain events or phenomena based on observations and prior knowledge. It is a testable prediction that guides the scientific investigation process. By formulating a hypothesis, scientists can make predictions and design experiments to gather data and test the validity of the hypothesis. Observations (choice B) involve gathering information through the senses. Experiments (choice C) are procedures carried out to support or refute a hypothesis. Conclusions (choice D) are deductions made based on the results of experiments and observations, but they are not the initial statement or explanation of events or happenings.
3. ___________ is a symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits and the other is not affected.
- A. Mutualism
- B. Parasitism
- C. Commensalism
- D. Competition
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Commensalism.' In commensalism, one organism benefits from the relationship while the other is neither helped nor harmed. This type of symbiotic relationship is characterized by one organism deriving a benefit, such as food or shelter, without impacting the other organism in any significant way. Choice A, 'Mutualism,' is a symbiotic relationship in which both organisms benefit. Choice B, 'Parasitism,' is a symbiotic relationship in which one organism benefits at the expense of the other. Choice D, 'Competition,' refers to a relationship in which organisms compete for limited resources, with both being affected in terms of access to resources.
4. DNA bases include all but which of the following?
- A. Adenine
- B. Thymine
- C. Uracil
- D. Cytosine
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Uracil. Uracil is not a DNA base; it is a base found only in RNA. The four bases in DNA are Adenine, Thymine, Cytosine, and Guanine. Choice A, Adenine, is a correct DNA base. Choice B, Thymine, is a correct DNA base. Choice D, Cytosine, is a correct DNA base. Therefore, Uracil is the only incorrect choice among the options provided.
5. What organelle pushes water out of the cell?
- A. Lysosomes
- B. Vacuoles (contractile)
- C. Mitochondria
- D. Nucleus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vacuoles (contractile). Vacuoles (contractile) are responsible for expelling excess water out of the cell. Lysosomes are involved in the digestion and removal of waste materials, mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell involved in energy production, and the nucleus contains the cell's genetic material but does not play a role in pushing water out of the cell.
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