Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following best describes one of the roles of RNA?

• A. Manufacturing the proteins needed from DNA
• B. Creating the bonds between the elements that make up DNA
• C. Sending messages about the correct sequence of proteins in DNA
• D. Forming the identifiable double helix shape of DNA

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. RNA serves as a messenger that carries instructions from DNA for protein synthesis. It does not manufacture proteins directly from DNA (choice A), create bonds within DNA (choice B), or form the double helix structure of DNA (choice D). Therefore, the primary role of RNA is to convey information about the correct sequence of proteins to be synthesized based on the DNA sequences it receives.

2. Which dome-shaped muscular structure separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity?

• A. Diaphragm
• B. Sternum
• C. Pericardium
• D. Trachea

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is the correct answer. It is a dome-shaped muscular structure that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in breathing by contracting and relaxing to change thoracic volume during inhalation and exhalation. The sternum is a flat bone in the center of the chest and is not the structure that separates the chest and abdominal cavities. The pericardium is a membrane that surrounds the heart, not involved in separating cavities. The trachea is the windpipe that connects the larynx to the bronchi and is not the structure that separates the chest and abdominal cavities.

3. What is the process of cells becoming specialized to perform specific functions called?

• A. Cell division
• B. Cell differentiation
• C. Cell growth
• D. Cell regeneration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cell differentiation is the process by which cells become specialized to perform specific functions. During differentiation, cells acquire specific structures and functions that allow them to carry out particular roles in the body. Cell division refers to the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. Cell growth is the process by which cells increase in size and number. Cell regeneration is the process by which new cells are produced to replace damaged or lost cells in an organism. Therefore, in this context, the process of cells becoming specialized to perform specific functions is best described as cell differentiation.

4. Which structure in the respiratory system is responsible for preventing food and liquids from entering the trachea during swallowing?

• A. Bronchi
• B. Larynx
• C. Alveoli
• D. Pharynx

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The larynx, housing the epiglottis, a flap of tissue, is the structure responsible for preventing food and liquids from entering the trachea during swallowing. It acts as a protective barrier, covering the trachea to ensure that ingested substances are directed to the esophagus. The bronchi are the primary airway passages that branch from the trachea into the lungs. Alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where gas exchange occurs, facilitating the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. The pharynx is the passage connecting the mouth and nasal cavity to the esophagus and trachea.

5. Which of the following statements is true regarding a supersaturated solution?

• A. It is unstable and tends to crystallize
• B. It contains more solute than it could dissolve
• C. It has a higher concentration than a saturated solution
• D. It is rarely encountered in everyday solutions

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A supersaturated solution is unstable and tends to crystallize because it contains more solute than it could dissolve at a given temperature. This excess solute is in a metastable state and can precipitate out if disturbed, leading to the formation of crystals. Option B is incorrect because a supersaturated solution does contain more solute than it could normally dissolve, but it becomes unstable due to this excess solute. Option C is incorrect because while a supersaturated solution does have a higher concentration than a saturated solution, the defining characteristic related to its instability is the excess solute. Option D is incorrect as supersaturated solutions can be encountered in various everyday scenarios, such as certain sugar solutions used in cooking or rock candy production.

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