Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following is the smallest part of an element that can still be recognized as that element?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An atom is the smallest unit of matter that retains the chemical properties of an element. It consists of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons that orbit the nucleus. The number of protons in the nucleus defines the atomic number of the element, and the number of neutrons determines the isotope of the element. While electrons, protons, and neutrons are fundamental particles, an atom as a whole is the smallest part of an element that maintains its unique identity. Electrons are negatively charged particles orbiting the nucleus, protons are positively charged particles in the nucleus, and neutrons are neutral particles in the nucleus. Therefore, the correct answer is 'D: Atom.'

2. What is an isotope? For any given element, it is an atom with which of the following?

• A. a different atomic number
• B. a different number of protons
• C. a different number of electrons
• D. a different mass number

Correct answer: D

Rationale: An isotope of an element is an atom with a different number of neutrons, resulting in a different mass number. Isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons (which determines the element's identity) but differ in the number of neutrons, leading to variations in mass numbers. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number. Choice B is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons. Choice C is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of electrons.

3. What type of bond holds water molecules together?

• A. Covalent bond
• B. Hydrogen bond
• C. Ionic bond
• D. Peptide bond

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Hydrogen bond. Hydrogen bonds are responsible for holding water molecules together. In a water molecule, the oxygen atom is slightly negative, and the hydrogen atoms are slightly positive, creating a partial positive and negative charge. This polarity allows hydrogen bonds to form between adjacent water molecules. Covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons, ionic bonds involve transfer of electrons between ions, and peptide bonds are specific to linking amino acids in proteins, which are not relevant to water molecule interactions.

4. Which of the following is true regarding T cells?

• A. They are only seen in individuals with leukemia.
• B. They are a specialized type of white blood cell.
• C. They mature in the thymus.
• D. They play a role in the immune response.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: T cells are a specialized type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune response. They are produced in the bone marrow and mature in the thymus gland. T cells help coordinate and regulate the immune response to pathogens and foreign substances by interacting with other immune cells. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. T cells are not exclusively seen in individuals with leukemia; they are a normal component of the immune system found in healthy individuals. While it is true that T cells are a specialized type of white blood cell, the key characteristic being tested in this question is their role in the immune response. Lastly, T cells do mature in the thymus, but this alone does not encompass the full scope of their function in the immune system.

5. Which type of epithelial tissue lines the inner lining of your intestines, responsible for absorption?

• A. Stratified squamous
• B. Simple columnar
• C. Stratified cuboidal
• D. Transitional epithelium

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is simple columnar epithelium. This type of epithelial tissue is well-suited for absorption and secretion due to its tall, column-like shape and the presence of microvilli on its surface, which increase the surface area for absorption in organs like the intestines. Simple columnar epithelium is the ideal choice for the inner lining of the intestines as it allows for efficient nutrient absorption. Stratified squamous epithelium is typically found in areas subjected to abrasion, like the skin, and not suited for absorption. Stratified cuboidal epithelium is rare and found in specific gland ducts, not in the intestines. Transitional epithelium is specialized for stretching and is primarily found in the urinary system, not involved in absorption processes in the intestines.

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