Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following distinguishes the isotopes of an element?

• A. Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different ionic charges.
• B. Isotopes are atoms of elements within the same group on the periodic table.
• C. Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons.
• D. Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different electron configurations.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Isotopes are defined as atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons in their nucleus but different numbers of neutrons. This leads to variations in atomic mass for isotopes of an element. The different number of neutrons in isotopes results in differences in their atomic mass and properties while still belonging to the same element. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes do not have different ionic charges, they have the same chemical properties. Choice B is incorrect because isotopes are not atoms of elements within the same group on the periodic table; they are variants of the same element. Choice D is incorrect because isotopes of an element have the same electron configuration, differing only in the number of neutrons in the nucleus.

2. How many electrons are typically found in each shell of a neutral aluminum atom with 13 electrons in its electron cloud?

• A. 6 in the first shell, 7 in the second shell
• B. 2 in the first shell, 11 in the second shell
• C. 2 in the first shell, 8 in the second shell, 3 in the third shell
• D. 3 in the first shell, 5 in the second shell, 5 in the third shell

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a neutral aluminum atom with 13 electrons, the electron distribution typically follows the electron shell filling order based on the Aufbau principle. The first shell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, the second shell can hold up to 8 electrons, and the third shell can hold up to 8 electrons as well. Therefore, the distribution would be 2 electrons in the first shell, 8 electrons in the second shell, and 3 electrons in the third shell, totaling 13 electrons. Choice A is incorrect as it exceeds the maximum number of electrons the shells can hold. Choice B is incorrect as it does not distribute the electrons correctly among the shells. Choice D is incorrect as it also does not distribute the electrons correctly among the shells.

3. Which of the following salt solutions is most likely to conduct electricity well?

• A. A saturated solution
• B. A concentrated solution of a strong electrolyte
• C. A dilute solution of a weak acid
• D. A mixture of a neutral compound and water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A concentrated solution of a strong electrolyte is most likely to conduct electricity well. Strong electrolytes completely dissociate into ions in solution, allowing for the flow of electric current. This high concentration of ions in the solution enhances its conductivity, making it a better conductor compared to other options. A saturated solution, although containing dissolved ions, may not have a high enough concentration to conduct electricity effectively. A dilute solution of a weak acid is a poor conductor as weak acids only partially dissociate into ions. A mixture of a neutral compound and water does not contain free ions necessary for conducting electricity.

4. What is the term for a genetic disorder caused by a mutation in a mitochondrial gene?

• A. Autosomal dominant disorder
• B. Autosomal recessive disorder
• C. Sex-linked disorder
• D. Mitochondrial disorder

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Autosomal dominant disorder: This type of genetic disorder is caused by a mutation in one copy of an autosomal gene. It is not related to mitochondrial gene mutations. B) Autosomal recessive disorder: This type of genetic disorder is caused by mutations in both copies of an autosomal gene. It is not related to mitochondrial gene mutations. C) Sex-linked disorder: This type of genetic disorder is caused by mutations in genes located on the sex chromosomes (X or Y). It is not related to mitochondrial gene mutations. D) Mitochondrial disorder: Mitochondrial disorders are genetic disorders caused by mutations in genes located in the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. These disorders are inherited maternally and can affect various organs and systems in the body due to the role of mitochondria in energy production.

5. Which of the following is NOT a function of the lymphatic system?

• A. Removing substances from the blood.
• B. Releasing hormones.
• C. Combating disease.
• D. Maintaining tissue fluid balance.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Releasing hormones is not a function of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system plays crucial roles in removing substances from the blood, combating disease through the production of immune cells, and maintaining tissue fluid balance by circulating lymph. Releasing hormones is primarily the function of endocrine glands, not the lymphatic system.

Similar Questions