HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology Practice Test 2024
1. Which organelle is the site of photosynthesis in plant cells?
- A. Mitochondria
- B. Chloroplasts
- C. Ribosomes
- D. Endoplasmic Reticulum
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Chloroplasts. Chloroplasts are responsible for conducting photosynthesis in plant cells. They contain chlorophyll, a pigment that captures light energy and converts it into chemical energy through the process of photosynthesis. Mitochondria (choice A) are known as the powerhouse of the cell and are involved in cellular respiration, not photosynthesis. Ribosomes (choice C) are responsible for protein synthesis. The endoplasmic reticulum (choice D) is involved in protein and lipid synthesis and transport within the cell, not photosynthesis.
2. Which is not part of a nucleic acid?
- A. Sulfate
- B. Phosphate
- C. Carbon
- D. Nitrogen
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Sulfate is not part of a nucleic acid. Nucleic acids, such as DNA and RNA, are composed of nucleotide units, which consist of a phosphate group, a sugar molecule (ribose in RNA and deoxyribose in DNA), and a nitrogenous base. Carbon and nitrogen are essential elements found in nucleic acids, while sulfate is not a component of nucleic acid structure. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Sulfate.
3. Why do cells need to use exocytosis?
- A. To obtain energy
- B. To defend against invaders
- C. To remove waste products
- D. To undergo division
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Cells need to use exocytosis to remove waste products from the cell. Exocytosis is a process where cells release molecules or substances outside the cell by fusing vesicles with the cell membrane. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis by efficiently eliminating waste materials. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because exocytosis is specifically involved in the expulsion of molecules, not for obtaining energy, defending against invaders, or cell division.
4. How do green plants use nitrates in the nitrogen cycle?
- A. To synthesize proteins
- B. To store food
- C. To decompose ammonia
- D. To break down nitrites
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Green plants use nitrates in the nitrogen cycle to synthesize proteins. Nitrogen is an essential component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Plants take up nitrates from the soil through their roots and incorporate nitrogen into their proteins through the process of protein biosynthesis. This helps in their growth, development, and overall health. Choice B, 'To store food,' is incorrect because nitrates are primarily used for protein synthesis, not food storage. Choice C, 'To decompose ammonia,' is incorrect as plants do not decompose ammonia but rather utilize it through nitrification. Choice D, 'To break down nitrites,' is incorrect as plants typically convert nitrites into nitrates through a process called nitrate assimilation for protein synthesis.
5. What is the primary function of the endoplasmic reticulum in a cell?
- A. Energy production
- B. Protein synthesis
- C. Waste removal
- D. Transport of materials
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum's primary function is the transport of materials within the cell. It acts as a network of membranes to assist in the transportation of proteins and other substances throughout the cell. Choice A, 'Energy production,' is incorrect because the endoplasmic reticulum is not directly involved in energy production. Choice B, 'Protein synthesis,' is incorrect as protein synthesis mainly occurs in ribosomes, although the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in modifying and transporting proteins. Choice C, 'Waste removal,' is also incorrect as waste removal is primarily handled by other organelles like lysosomes and peroxisomes.
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