which of the following describes the term allele

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Practice Test Science

1. Which of the following describes the term allele?

A. A specific form of a gene that can exist at a particular locus
B. An inheritable variation of a gene
C. A grouping of various genes
D. Variations of complementary base pairs

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alleles are different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus. They represent variations of a gene and are inheritable. Choice A is incorrect as it does not fully capture the concept of an allele, which is a specific form of a gene rather than a substitution. Choice C is incorrect as alleles are not a grouping of various genes but rather different forms of a single gene at a specific locus. Choice D is also incorrect as it does not accurately describe alleles; alleles are variations of genes, not base pairs.

2. What is the process of copying DNA called?

A. Transcription
B. Translation
C. Replication
D. Mutation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Replication. Replication is the process of making an identical copy of DNA. During replication, the DNA double helix unwinds, and each strand serves as a template for the synthesis of a new complementary strand, resulting in two identical DNA molecules. Transcription (choice A) involves the synthesis of mRNA from a DNA template, not the direct copying of DNA. Translation (choice B) is the process of converting mRNA into a sequence of amino acids to form a protein, not copying DNA. Mutation (choice D) refers to changes in the DNA sequence, which can occur during replication but is not the process of copying DNA itself.

3. Edema, characterized by swelling due to fluid buildup, can be a sign of:

A. Heart failure
B. Liver disease
C. Lymphatic system dysfunction
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Edema is the swelling caused by fluid retention in the body tissues. It can indicate various underlying conditions. Heart failure can lead to fluid buildup due to the heart's ineffective pumping. Liver disease can cause edema by reducing protein production, leading to fluid leakage into tissues. Dysfunction of the lymphatic system can impair fluid drainage, contributing to edema. Therefore, all of the above conditions can manifest with edema, making the correct answer 'All of the above.' Choices A, B, and C are all valid causes of edema, making them incorrect when considered individually. Selecting 'All of the above' encompasses all the possible causes of edema.

4. Which of the following represents the strongest scientific argument?

A. Scientific Hypothesis
B. Scientific Law
C. Scientific Study Conclusion
D. Scientific Theory

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'Scientific Theory.' A scientific theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world. It is based on a large body of evidence and has withstood rigorous testing and scrutiny. Scientific theories are considered the strongest scientific arguments because they have predictive power and are supported by a significant amount of empirical data. Choice A, 'Scientific Hypothesis,' is a proposed explanation for a phenomenon but lacks the extensive evidence and testing that theories undergo. Choice B, 'Scientific Law,' describes a consistent and predictable relationship between variables but does not explain why the relationship exists. Choice C, 'Scientific Study Conclusion,' may be based on a single study and lacks the comprehensive nature and validation that theories possess.

5. What is the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney?

A. Neuron
B. Nephron
C. Glomerulus
D. Axon

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Nephron. The nephron is indeed the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney. It is responsible for filtering blood, regulating electrolytes, maintaining fluid balance, and removing waste products. Choice A, Neuron, is incorrect as neurons are nerve cells, not specific to kidney function. Choice C, Glomerulus, is a component of the nephron but not the entire functional unit. Choice D, Axon, is a part of nerve cells and is not related to kidney structure or function.