Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is the positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of an atom?

• A. Electron
• B. Proton
• C. Neutron
• D. Quark

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Proton. Protons are positively charged subatomic particles found in the nucleus of an atom. They have a mass of approximately 1 atomic mass unit (amu) and a charge of +1. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus determines the atomic number of the element, which is a unique identifier for each element. Choice A, Electron, is incorrect as electrons are negatively charged particles found outside the nucleus. Choice C, Neutron, is incorrect as neutrons are neutral particles found in the nucleus. Choice D, Quark, is incorrect as quarks are elementary particles that combine to form protons and neutrons, but they are not the positively charged particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

2. What is the major difference between somatic and germline mutations?

• A. Somatic mutations usually benefit the individual while germline mutations usually harm them.
• B. Since germline mutations only affect one cell, they are less noticeable than the rapidly dividing somatic cells.
• C. Somatic mutations are not expressed for several generations, but germline mutations are expressed immediately.
• D. Germline mutations are usually inherited while somatic mutations will affect only the individual.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The major difference between somatic and germline mutations is that germline mutations are usually inherited and can be passed on to offspring, while somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells and only affect the individual in which they occur. This means that germline mutations have the potential to be present in future generations, while somatic mutations do not.

3. What is the structure of DNA?

• A. Single-stranded, linear
• B. Double-stranded, linear
• C. Double-stranded, helix
• D. Single-stranded, helix

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Double-stranded, helix. DNA is structured as a double helix formed by two strands of nucleotides. The nucleotides are paired with complementary bases (A-T and C-G) in the center, held together by hydrogen bonds. This double-stranded helical structure is a fundamental characteristic of DNA and essential for its function in storing genetic information. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because DNA is not single-stranded; it consists of two strands that run antiparallel to each other and are connected via hydrogen bonds. Additionally, DNA does not have a linear structure but rather a helical one, providing stability and protection to the genetic information it carries.

4. What is the microscopic functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood?

• A. Ureter
• B. Nephron
• C. Renal pelvis
• D. Bladder

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nephron is the correct answer as it is the microscopic functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood. It is composed of a renal corpuscle (glomerulus and Bowman's capsule) and a renal tubule. The other options, such as (A) Ureter, (C) Renal pelvis, and (D) Bladder, do not play a role in filtering blood within the kidney. The ureter is a tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder. The renal pelvis is a part of the kidney where urine collects before entering the ureter. The bladder is an organ that stores urine until it is excreted from the body.

5. What does the phrase 'survival of the fittest' refer to?

• A. Organisms with the most complex anatomical structures are more likely to survive and reproduce.
• B. Organisms that demonstrate the best adaptations to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproduction.
• C. All organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success regardless of their traits.
• D. Only the strongest and most aggressive individuals within a population will survive and reproduce.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The phrase 'survival of the fittest' is often associated with the concept of natural selection, proposed by Charles Darwin. Natural selection is the process by which organisms best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to the next generation. This process does not necessarily favor the most complex anatomical structures (option A) or the strongest and most aggressive individuals (option D). Instead, it emphasizes the importance of adaptations that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. Option C is incorrect because natural selection results in differential reproductive success based on an organism's traits, meaning that not all organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success.

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