Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is directly transcribed from DNA and represents the first step in protein synthesis?

• A. siRNA
• B. rRNA
• C. mRNA
• D. tRNA

Correct answer: C

Rationale: mRNA (messenger RNA) is directly transcribed from DNA in the nucleus during the process of transcription. It serves as a template for protein synthesis during translation in the cytoplasm. mRNA carries genetic information from the DNA to the ribosomes, where it determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein. Thus, mRNA represents the first step in protein synthesis as it carries the code from the DNA to be translated into a protein. Choice A, siRNA (small interfering RNA), is involved in post-transcriptional gene silencing and does not play a role in protein synthesis. Choice B, rRNA (ribosomal RNA), is a component of the ribosome and plays a structural and functional role in protein synthesis but is not directly transcribed from DNA. Choice D, tRNA (transfer RNA), is responsible for bringing amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis but is not directly transcribed from DNA.

2. The pH scale is used to indicate the concentration of:

• A. Hydrogen ions
• B. Oxygen
• C. Salts
• D. Sugar molecules

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The pH scale is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, representing its acidity or basicity. A lower pH value indicates higher hydrogen ion concentration and acidity, while a higher pH value indicates lower hydrogen ion concentration and basicity. Choice A, 'Hydrogen ions,' is the correct answer because the pH scale specifically measures the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the pH scale is not used to indicate the concentration of oxygen, salts, or sugar molecules.

3. Which organ produces insulin?

• A. Pancreas
• B. Liver
• C. Stomach
• D. Kidneys

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells for energy production or storage. The pancreas, located behind the stomach, is the organ responsible for producing insulin. Within the pancreas, specialized cells known as beta cells synthesize and secrete insulin in response to changes in blood glucose levels. The liver, although vital for metabolism, does not produce insulin. Similarly, the stomach and kidneys do not play a role in insulin production. Hence, the correct answer is the pancreas.

4. Which macromolecules are composed of nucleotides and store information and energy?

• A. Lipids
• B. Proteins
• C. Carbohydrates
• D. Nucleic acids

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Nucleic acids. Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are composed of nucleotides and are responsible for storing genetic information and energy (e.g., ATP). Lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates are distinct macromolecules with varying functions and structures. Lipids primarily serve as energy reservoirs, structural components, and cell signaling molecules. Proteins play crucial roles in cellular functions like enzyme activity, structural support, and intracellular signaling. Carbohydrates are mainly utilized as an energy source and for structural purposes within cells.

5. Which organelle is responsible for producing energy in the cell?

• A. Nucleus
• B. Mitochondria
• C. Golgi apparatus
• D. Ribosome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Mitochondria. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell and are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP through the process of cellular respiration. The other organelles listed, such as the nucleus, Golgi apparatus, and ribosome, have different functions within the cell and are not directly involved in energy production. The nucleus is responsible for storing genetic material and controlling cell activities. The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis.

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