Nursing Elites

1. Which one of the following best describes the function of a cell membrane?

• A. It controls the substances entering and leaving the cell.
• B. It maintains the cell's shape.
• C. It controls the substances entering the cell.
• D. It supports the cell's structures.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The function of a cell membrane is to control the substances entering and leaving the cell. The cell membrane is selectively permeable, allowing it to regulate the movement of ions and molecules in and out of the cell to maintain internal balance and proper function. Choice B is incorrect because while the cell membrane does provide some structural support, its primary function is not to maintain the cell's shape. Choice C is incorrect because the cell membrane controls both the substances entering and leaving the cell, not just those entering. Choice D is incorrect as the primary function of the cell membrane is not to support the cell's structures but to regulate the movement of substances.

2. If bacteria are placed in a strong solution of salt water, they will shrink as water moves out of the bacteria. What is this process called?

• A. Dehydration synthesis
• B. Hydrolysis
• C. Osmosis
• D. Isotonic transport

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Osmosis is the process by which water molecules move across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. In this case, when bacteria are placed in a strong solution of salt water, the high concentration of solutes outside the bacteria causes water to move out of the bacteria, leading to shrinkage. This process is known as osmosis. Dehydration synthesis (Choice A) is a process where molecules combine by removing water. Hydrolysis (Choice B) is the breakdown of molecules by the addition of water. Isotonic transport (Choice D) does not accurately describe the specific movement of water in or out of bacterial cells in a hypertonic solution.

3. Bacillus subtilis may be described as ___________.

• A. spiral
• B. globular
• C. rod-shaped
• D. grape-like clusters

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Bacillus subtilis is a rod-shaped bacterium. Its name "Bacillus" refers to its rod-like shape, which is a characteristic feature of this bacteria.

4. What organelle pushes water out of the cell?

• A. Lysosomes
• B. Vacuoles (contractile)
• C. Mitochondria
• D. Nucleus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vacuoles (contractile). Vacuoles (contractile) are responsible for expelling excess water out of the cell. Lysosomes are involved in the digestion and removal of waste materials, mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell involved in energy production, and the nucleus contains the cell's genetic material but does not play a role in pushing water out of the cell.

5. Which statement is untrue?

• A. RNA is single-stranded.
• B. RNA contains uracil.
• C. DNA codes for proteins.
• D. DNA cannot be altered.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: DNA can be altered through various processes such as mutations, genetic engineering, and epigenetic modifications. Changes in DNA can occur naturally or through external influences, leading to variations in the genetic code. Therefore, the statement that DNA cannot be altered is untrue. Choices A, B, and C are true statements. RNA is indeed single-stranded, RNA contains uracil instead of thymine, and DNA serves as a template for protein synthesis.

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