which of the following choices would contain the code for making a protein

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

1. Which of the following choices would contain the code for making a protein?

A. mRNA
B. tRNA
C. rRNA
D. DNA polymerase

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: mRNA (messenger RNA). mRNA contains the genetic code or instructions for making a protein. During protein synthesis, mRNA carries the genetic information from DNA in the cell nucleus to the ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized. The sequence of nucleotides in mRNA corresponds to the sequence of amino acids that will be used to build the protein. Choice B, tRNA (transfer RNA), is involved in carrying amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis but does not contain the code for making a protein. Choice C, rRNA (ribosomal RNA), is a component of ribosomes where protein synthesis occurs but does not contain the specific code for making a protein. Choice D, DNA polymerase, is an enzyme involved in DNA replication, not in directly coding for protein synthesis.

2. What is the role of the spindle apparatus in cell division?

A. To separate sister chromatids
B. To move chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell
C. To form a new nuclear envelope around each daughter cell
D. To synthesize new DNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The spindle apparatus, composed of microtubules, plays a crucial role in cell division (mitosis and meiosis) by ensuring proper chromosome separation and distribution to opposite poles of the cell. This segregation is vital for creating two genetically identical daughter cells in mitosis or four haploid daughter cells in meiosis. Choice A is incorrect because the separation of sister chromatids is specifically carried out by kinetochore fibers within the spindle apparatus. Choice C is inaccurate as the formation of a new nuclear envelope occurs post chromosome segregation. Choice D is incorrect as DNA synthesis does not occur within the spindle apparatus; it takes place during the S phase of the cell cycle.

3. What is the normal (complete) flow of blood through the heart?

A. Right atrium â†’ lungs â†’ left atrium â†’ body
B. Left atrium â†’ left ventricle â†’ body â†’ right atrium
C. Right atrium â†’ right ventricle â†’ lungs â†’ left atrium â†’ left ventricle â†’ aorta â†’ body
D. Right ventricle â†’ left ventricle â†’ body

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct flow of blood through the heart starts with the right atrium receiving deoxygenated blood from the body, followed by the right ventricle pumping blood to the lungs for oxygenation. Oxygenated blood then returns to the heart through the left atrium, then passes to the left ventricle which pumps it out to the body through the aorta. This flow ensures that blood is properly oxygenated before circulating through the body. Choice A is incorrect as the blood does not go directly from the left atrium to the body, skipping the left ventricle. Choice B is incorrect as it does not follow the correct flow sequence in the heart. Choice D is incorrect as it does not include the full pathway of blood through the heart.

4. Which type of nutrients require minimal digestion before absorption?

A. Carbohydrates
B. Proteins
C. Fats
D. Vitamins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates require digestion by enzymes in the mouth, stomach, and small intestine before they can be broken down into simple sugars for absorption. B) Proteins: Proteins need to be broken down into amino acids by stomach acid and digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine before they can be absorbed. C) Fats: Fats require bile from the gallbladder to emulsify them into smaller droplets for enzymes to break them down into fatty acids and glycerol for absorption. D) Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are already in a form that can be readily absorbed by the body without extensive digestion. They are absorbed directly into the bloodstream from the small intestine and do not require significant breakdown before absorption.

5. What is the primary function of white blood cells?

A. To carry oxygen
B. To fight infection
C. To transport nutrients
D. To transport waste

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "To fight infection." White blood cells are primarily responsible for fighting infections and foreign invaders in the body, making them a critical component of the immune system. Choice A, "To carry oxygen," is incorrect as red blood cells are responsible for oxygen transport. Choice C, "To transport nutrients," is incorrect as this function is mainly attributed to blood plasma and other specialized cells. Choice D, "To transport waste," is also incorrect as waste removal is primarily handled by the kidneys and the lymphatic system, not white blood cells.