which of the following distinguishes the isotopes of an element

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

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. What are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms, including humans, termed?

A. Muscles
B. Organs
C. Tissues
D. Cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cells are the fundamental units of structure and function in all living organisms. They are the basic building blocks of life and carry out essential functions necessary for an organism to survive and function properly. Muscles, organs, and tissues are composed of cells, but cells are the smallest unit that can carry out all the functions of life. Muscles are made up of muscle tissue, which in turn is composed of muscle cells. Organs are structures made up of different types of tissues working together, and tissues are groups of cells with a similar structure and function. Therefore, while muscles, organs, and tissues are important components of living organisms, cells are the fundamental units that perform all the vital functions of life.

3. Which of the following anatomical terms is not part of the knee?

A. Medial collateral ligament
B. Patella
C. Lateral malleolus
D. Lateral meniscus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The lateral malleolus is a bony prominence on the lateral side of the ankle and is not part of the knee anatomy. The other options - medial collateral ligament, patella, and lateral meniscus - are all structures within the knee joint. The medial collateral ligament is located on the inner side of the knee, the patella is the kneecap, and the lateral meniscus is a cartilage structure within the knee joint. Therefore, the correct answer is C, lateral malleolus.

4. When ethanol (C₂H₅OH) reacts with sodium metal (Na), what is the product?

A. Ethene (C₂H₄)
B. Sodium ethoxide (C₂H₅ONa)
C. Ethane (C₂H₆)
D. Sodium acetate (CH₃COONa)

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When ethanol (C₂H₅OH) reacts with sodium metal (Na), the product formed is Sodium ethoxide (C₂H₅ONa). This reaction is a classic example of a metal displacing hydrogen in an alcohol to form an alkoxide. In this specific case, sodium replaces the hydrogen in ethanol, resulting in the formation of sodium ethoxide. Choice A, Ethene (C₂H₄), is incorrect as it is a different compound formed from the dehydration of ethanol, not its reaction with sodium. Choice C, Ethane (C₂H₆), is incorrect as it is a saturated hydrocarbon, not the product of the reaction of ethanol with sodium metal. Choice D, Sodium acetate (CH₃COONa), is incorrect as it involves acetic acid, not ethanol, reacting with sodium to form the salt sodium acetate.

5. Where is the thymus gland, crucial for immune system development, located?

A. Chest
B. Abdomen
C. Pelvis
D. Head and neck

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The thymus gland is located in the chest, specifically in the upper part of the chest behind the breastbone (sternum). It plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of T-lymphocytes (T cells), which are important for the immune system's function. Choice B (Abdomen), C (Pelvis), and D (Head and neck) are incorrect locations for the thymus gland. The thymus is not found in the abdomen, pelvis, head, or neck regions; it is uniquely situated in the upper chest area.