Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is a characteristic of an interneuron?

• A. Forms neural circuits
• B. Interacts with effectors
• C. Sends impulses to the CNS
• D. Functions as an efferent nerve cell

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct characteristic of an interneuron is that it forms neural circuits, connecting sensory and motor neurons within the central nervous system. Interneurons facilitate communication between different neurons in the central nervous system, helping in the processing and integration of signals. Choice B is incorrect as interneurons primarily interact with other neurons, not effectors. Choice C is incorrect as interneurons typically do not send impulses to the CNS; they operate within the CNS. Choice D is incorrect as interneurons are not efferent nerve cells; they are mainly involved in processing signals within the CNS rather than transmitting signals to effectors.

2. Which structure in the respiratory system serves as a passageway for both air and food, with a flap-like structure that prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing?

• A. Larynx
• B. Pharynx
• C. Trachea
• D. Bronchi

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pharynx is the correct answer. The pharynx is a structure in the respiratory system that serves as a passageway for both air and food. It contains a flap-like structure called the epiglottis, which prevents food from entering the trachea during swallowing by covering the opening to the trachea. The larynx, although important in the respiratory system, is located below the pharynx and contains the vocal cords. The trachea is a tube that carries air to and from the lungs, while the bronchi are the two main branches that lead from the trachea into the lungs.

3. Enzymes are ________ molecules that serve as _______ for certain biological reactions.

• A. Enzymes are irrelevant molecules that serve as suppressors for certain biological reactions.
• B. Enzymes are acidic molecules that serve as catalysts for certain biological reactions.
• C. Enzymes are lipid molecules that serve as catalysts for certain biological reactions.
• D. Enzymes are protein molecules that serve as catalysts for certain biological reactions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Enzymes are protein molecules that serve as catalysts for certain biological reactions. Enzymes are biological molecules that speed up chemical reactions in living organisms by lowering the activation energy required for the reactions to occur. They are typically proteins that have specific shapes and active sites that allow them to interact with specific substrates and facilitate reactions without being consumed themselves. The other choices are incorrect because enzymes are not irrelevant, acidic, or lipid molecules; they are primarily proteins known for their catalytic properties.

4. Which of the following neurotransmitters slows down the activity of neurons, preventing them from becoming overexcited?

• A. Acetylcholine
• B. Dopamine
• C. GABA
• D. Serotonin

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter that reduces neuronal activity, thus preventing overexcitation. Acetylcholine (choice A) is involved in muscle control and cognitive function, but it is not primarily responsible for slowing down neuronal activity. Dopamine (choice B) plays a role in reward-motivated behavior and motor control, rather than inhibiting neuronal firing. Serotonin (choice D) is involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite but does not primarily slow down neuronal activity to prevent overexcitation.

5. What is the process by which lighter nuclei fuse to form heavier nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy?

• A. Fission
• B. Fusion
• C. Radioactivity
• D. Chain reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Fusion is the process by which lighter nuclei combine to form heavier nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy in the process. This process is the source of energy in stars, including our Sun. Fission, the process of splitting heavier nuclei into lighter nuclei, is not correct. Radioactivity involves the emission of particles or radiation from the nucleus of an unstable atom, which is different from fusion. A chain reaction is a self-sustaining reaction where the products of one reaction cause further reactions, which is unrelated to fusion.

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