which names a final step in protein synthesis

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology 2024

1. Which names a final step in protein synthesis?

A. DNA unzips.
B. Amino acids bond.
C. Transfer RNA bonds to messenger RNA.
D. Messenger RNA moves to ribosomes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The final step in protein synthesis is when amino acids bond together to form a protein chain. This process occurs during translation, where transfer RNA (tRNA) brings specific amino acids to the ribosome, and the ribosome catalyzes the formation of peptide bonds between the amino acids. This step ultimately leads to the synthesis of a complete protein based on the instructions from messenger RNA (mRNA). Choice A ('DNA unzips') is incorrect as it refers to the initiation of transcription, not the final step of protein synthesis. Choice C ('Transfer RNA bonds to messenger RNA') is incorrect as it describes the process of translation initiation rather than the final step. Choice D ('Messenger RNA moves to ribosomes') is also incorrect as mRNA is already present at the ribosomes throughout the translation process, not just in the final step.

2. A cell that does not contain membrane-bound organelles or a defined nucleus would be classified as:

A. eukaryotic
B. embryonic
C. prokaryotic
D. symbiotic

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A cell that does not contain membrane-bound organelles or a defined nucleus is classified as prokaryotic. Prokaryotic cells lack a true nucleus, and their genetic material is typically found in a region called the nucleoid. Examples of prokaryotic organisms include bacteria and archaea. Eukaryotic cells, on the other hand, contain membrane-bound organelles and a true nucleus, distinguishing them from prokaryotic cells. Embryonic and symbiotic classifications are not directly related to the presence of organelles or a nucleus in cells.

3. The difference between diploid and haploid is as follows:

A. Diploid organisms are multicellular
B. Diploid cells are somatic
C. Diploid cells have two sets of homologous chromosomes
D. More than one of the above is true

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Option B correctly states that diploid cells are somatic cells that make up the body tissues and organs in an organism, while haploid cells are gametes involved in sexual reproduction. Option C accurately differentiates diploid and haploid cells based on their chromosome sets – diploid cells have two sets of homologous chromosomes (one from each parent), whereas haploid cells have one set of unpaired chromosomes. Therefore, the correct choice is D, as both statements in options B and C are accurate descriptions of the differences between diploid and haploid cells. Option A is incorrect because diploid and haploid refer to the number of sets of chromosomes in a cell, not whether the organism is multicellular or not.

4. Which, if any, of the following statements are true?

A. Water boils at approximately 100°C (212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure
B. The boiling point is the temperature at which the vapor pressure is higher than the atmospheric pressure around the water
C. Water boils at a lower temperature in areas of lower pressure
D. A and C are true

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Both statements A and C are true. Water indeed boils at approximately 100°C (212°F) at standard atmospheric pressure. However, water boils at a lower temperature in areas of lower pressure due to the decreased atmospheric pressure, which affects the vapor pressure and boiling point of water. Statement B is incorrect because the boiling point is the temperature at which the vapor pressure equals the external pressure (atmospheric pressure in this case), not when it is higher.

5. Whose energy efficiency is greater?

A. Herbivore
B. Carnivore
C. Omnivore
D. Decomposer

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Decomposers have the greatest efficiency of energy among the given options. Decomposers break down organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances through the process of decomposition. This breakdown process results in the release of nutrients back into the ecosystem, making energy more readily available for other organisms to use. In contrast, herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores all derive their energy from the consumption of other living organisms, making their energy efficiency lower than that of decomposers. Herbivores consume plants for energy, which involves energy loss due to inefficiencies in converting plant matter into usable energy. Carnivores consume herbivores or other carnivores, leading to further energy loss through each trophic level. Omnivores consume both plant and animal matter, but their energy efficiency is still lower than decomposers because of the energy loss associated with consuming living organisms. Decomposers play a crucial role in recycling nutrients and energy in ecosystems, making them highly efficient in the utilization of energy.