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. Which organ produces insulin and glucagon?

• A. Salivary Glands
• B. Liver
• C. Gallbladder
• D. Pancreas

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Pancreas. The pancreas is the organ responsible for producing the hormones insulin and glucagon. Insulin functions to lower blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose by cells for energy production. On the other hand, glucagon works to raise blood sugar levels by prompting the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream. The pancreas is a vital organ in the endocrine system, playing a crucial role in maintaining appropriate blood sugar levels in the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as the salivary glands produce saliva, the liver is involved in various metabolic functions, and the gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver, but none of these organs produce insulin and glucagon.

3. Which part of the digestive system is responsible for absorbing nutrients?

• A. Esophagus
• B. Stomach
• C. Small intestine
• D. Large intestine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The small intestine is the correct answer because it is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It contains specialized structures such as villi and microvilli that maximize the absorption of nutrients from digested food. The esophagus is responsible for transporting food from the mouth to the stomach; the stomach primarily aids in digestion by secreting enzymes and acids; and the large intestine mainly absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter. Therefore, the small intestine plays a crucial role in absorbing essential nutrients for the body's functions, making it the correct choice in this context.

4. What is the fatty sheath that insulates some nerve fibers and speeds up signal transmission called?

• A. Myelin sheath
• B. Dura mater
• C. Pia mater
• D. Arachnoid mater

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Myelin sheath. The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that surrounds and insulates some nerve fibers, facilitating the rapid transmission of signals along the nerve fibers. Choices B, C, and D (Dura mater, Pia mater, and Arachnoid mater) are layers of the meninges, protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. The primary function of the meninges is to protect and support the central nervous system, not to insulate nerve fibers for signal transmission.

5. Which of the following water-soluble vitamins is NOT synthesized in the large intestine?

• A. B6
• B. Biotin
• C. Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5)
• D. Vitamin K

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: B6. Vitamin B6 is not synthesized in the large intestine, while biotin, pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5), and Vitamin K can be synthesized by gut microflora. Biotin, B5, and K are examples of water-soluble vitamins that can be produced in the large intestine, but B6 needs to be obtained through dietary sources. Therefore, B6 is the correct answer as it is not synthesized within the large intestine, unlike the other options.

Similar Questions