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. How many neutrons are in an atom of the following element with a mass number of 50?

• A. 38
• B. 88
• C. 50
• D. 126

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neutrons are found in the nucleus of an atom along with protons. To determine the number of neutrons in an atom, subtract the atomic number (number of protons) from the mass number. In this case, the mass number given is 50. Since the atomic number is not specified, we can infer it from the choices provided. The mass number of an element represents the total sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. Therefore, the number of neutrons in this atom would also be 50, as the mass number is equivalent to the combined number of protons and neutrons, making choice C the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not match the given mass number of 50.

3. What happens when an atom loses an electron?

• A. It forms a molecule.
• B. It gains a positive charge and becomes an ion.
• C. It alters its elemental identity.
• D. No change occurs; it remains neutral.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When an atom loses an electron, it gains a positive charge and becomes an ion. This occurs because the number of protons in the atom exceeds the number of electrons, leading to a positive charge. Therefore, the atom undergoes a transformation into an ion by losing an electron. Choice A is incorrect because losing an electron does not result in the formation of a molecule, as molecules are made up of bonded atoms. Choice C is incorrect because losing an electron does not change the fundamental identity of the atom; it only changes its charge. Choice D is incorrect because losing an electron causes the atom to become positively charged, altering its neutrality.

4. Which locations in the digestive system are sites of chemical digestion? I. Mouth II. Stomach III. Small Intestine

• A. II only
• B. III only
• C. II and III only
• D. I, II, and III

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Chemical digestion occurs in all three locations in the digestive system - the mouth, stomach, and small intestine. Enzymes in the saliva break down carbohydrates in the mouth, gastric juices in the stomach help break down proteins, and enzymes in the small intestine further break down macronutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. The mouth initiates the digestion of carbohydrates, the stomach digests proteins, and the small intestine continues the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Choice A is incorrect because chemical digestion does occur in the mouth. Choice B is incorrect as both the stomach and small intestine are sites of chemical digestion. Choice C is incorrect as the mouth is also a location of chemical digestion, not just the stomach and small intestine.

5. Smooth muscle is the only ____________ muscle in the body.

• A. Voluntary, striated
• B. Involuntary, non-striated
• C. Involuntary, striated
• D. Voluntary, non-striated

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Smooth muscle is the only involuntary, non-striated muscle type in the body. It is found in organs like the intestines and blood vessels, where it controls movements without conscious effort. Choice A is incorrect because voluntary muscles are under conscious control, while smooth muscle is involuntary. Choice C is incorrect because striations are not present in smooth muscle, unlike skeletal muscle. Choice D is incorrect because smooth muscle is not voluntary and lacks striations, making it different from skeletal muscle.

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