which of the following enzymes are responsible for adding a nucleotide to a growing dna chain

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Practice Test Science

1. Which of the following enzymes is responsible for adding a nucleotide to a growing DNA chain?

A. Helicase
B. Ligase
C. Nuclease
D. Polymerase

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is Polymerase. Polymerase is the enzyme responsible for adding nucleotides to a growing DNA chain during DNA replication. Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix to separate the DNA strands for replication, Ligase joins DNA fragments together by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds between them, and Nuclease cuts or degrades DNA strands. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect in the context of adding nucleotides to a growing DNA chain.

2. How many amino acids can make up a protein?

A. 10-20
B. 50-100
C. 100-500
D. 1000+

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Proteins are made up of long chains of amino acids, and there are 20 standard amino acids commonly found in proteins. The sequence and arrangement of these amino acids determine the structure and function of a protein. While proteins can vary in size and complexity, the number of amino acids typically ranges from around 10 to 20 in smaller proteins to hundreds or even thousands in larger proteins. Therefore, the range of 10-20 amino acids is the most accurate representation of the number of amino acids that can make up a protein. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they provide ranges that are beyond the typical number of amino acids found in proteins and may lead to confusion. The correct answer is A (10-20).

3. In the cardiovascular system, what does the term 'double circulation' refer to?

A. The separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood flow within the heart.
B. The regulation of blood pressure through vasoconstriction and vasodilation.
C. The cyclic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle.
D. The existence of two separate circulatory pathways, one for the lungs and one for the body.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The term 'double circulation' in the cardiovascular system refers to the existence of two separate circulatory pathways, one for the lungs (pulmonary circulation) and one for the body (systemic circulation). Oxygen-poor blood is pumped from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation, and then oxygen-rich blood is pumped from the lungs back to the heart to be circulated to the rest of the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the concept of 'double circulation.' Choice A refers to the separation of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood within the heart, choice B relates to blood pressure regulation mechanisms, and choice C describes the cardiac muscle's contraction and relaxation, none of which define 'double circulation' in the context of the cardiovascular system.

4. Which of the following statements accurately characterizes the relationship between genes and chromosomes?

A. Each gene contains multiple chromosomes.
B. Each chromosome contains multiple genes.
C. Genes and chromosomes are two different things referring to the same entity.
D. Genes and chromosomes are not interchangeable terms and do not always occur in equal numbers.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Each chromosome contains multiple genes. Genes, which are segments of DNA, are located on chromosomes and carry hereditary information. Chromosomes contain many genes, indicating that genes are part of the structure of chromosomes. Choice A is incorrect because genes do not contain chromosomes; rather, they are located on chromosomes. Choice C is incorrect as genes and chromosomes are distinct entities with different functions. Choice D is incorrect because genes and chromosomes are related but not in equal numbers; chromosomes contain multiple genes, but the number of genes can vary between chromosomes.

5. Which of the following is LEAST likely to be found in a human cell's genes?

A. Sequences of amino acids to be transcribed into mRNA
B. Lethal recessive traits like sickle cell anemia
C. Mutated DNA
D. DNA that codes for proteins the cell doesn't use

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Human cells typically contain genes that code for proteins necessary for the cell's functions. DNA that codes for proteins the cell doesn't use would be an inefficient use of the cell's resources. Therefore, it is less likely to be found in a human cell's genes. Options A, B, and C are more commonly associated with genes found in human cells. Choice A refers to the genetic information needed for protein synthesis, while choice B involves traits that can be present in the gene pool. Mutated DNA (choice C) can also be found in human cells as a result of genetic alterations. However, DNA that codes for proteins not utilized by the cell would be redundant and not typically retained in the genome.