which part of the cell is responsible for storing genetic information

ATI TEAS 7

Practice TEAS Science Test

1. Which part of the cell is responsible for storing genetic information?

A. Ribosome
B. Mitochondrion
C. Nucleus
D. Cytoplasm

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Nucleus. The nucleus is responsible for storing genetic information in the form of DNA. The DNA within the nucleus controls the activities of the cell by directing the synthesis of proteins and regulating gene expression. Choices A, Ribosome, B, Mitochondrion, and D, Cytoplasm, do not store genetic information. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis, mitochondria produce energy for the cell, and cytoplasm is a gel-like substance that houses organelles and where many cellular activities occur.

2. What are polymers?

A. Large molecules formed by repeating units called monomers
B. Simple organic molecules with low boiling points
C. Highly reactive compounds used in industrial processes
D. Insoluble solids with no definite structure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Polymers are large molecules formed by repeating units called monomers. These monomers link together to form long chains or networks, giving polymers their unique properties such as flexibility, strength, and durability. Choice B is incorrect because polymers are not simple organic molecules with low boiling points, but rather complex structures formed by polymerization. Choice C is incorrect as polymers are not necessarily highly reactive compounds, and they are not exclusively used in industrial processes. Choice D is incorrect because polymers can have varying solubilities and structures depending on their composition and properties.

3. Which element has the highest melting point of any element?

A. Tungsten
B. Iron
C. Platinum
D. Carbon

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Among the choices provided, carbon, in the form of diamond, has the highest melting point of any element. Diamond's strong covalent bonds between carbon atoms make it incredibly resistant to heat and pressure, giving it the highest melting point compared to tungsten, iron, and platinum. Tungsten is known for its high melting point among metals but not as high as carbon. Iron and platinum have lower melting points compared to carbon, making them incorrect choices in this context.

4. What ethical considerations are associated with the potential use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in humans?

A. Concerns about unintended consequences on the genome and potential off-target effects.
B. Debates on modifying the human germline and potential eugenic implications.
C. Accessibility and affordability of the technology, ensuring equitable access to benefits.
D. Risks associated with CRISPR-Cas9 editing germline cells and potential long-term impacts.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. CRISPR-Cas9 technology allows precise editing of germline cells, raising ethical concerns about modifying the human gene pool. This includes potential eugenic implications, debates on altering future generations, and the moral implications of such genetic modifications. Choice A discusses unintended consequences and off-target effects, but the primary ethical consideration with CRISPR-Cas9 technology relates to altering the human germline. Choices C and D, while important factors, are not the central ethical dilemmas associated with using CRISPR-Cas9 technology in humans.

5. Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body tissues. What is a potential cause of autoimmune diseases?

A. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals
B. Exposure to environmental toxins
C. Breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Autoimmune diseases result from a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms, leading to the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy body tissues. While deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals or exposure to environmental toxins can impact overall health, they are not direct causes of autoimmune diseases. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals may weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to various health issues but does not directly cause autoimmune diseases. Exposure to environmental toxins can trigger immune responses, but autoimmune diseases specifically stem from the breakdown of self-tolerance mechanisms within immune cells. Therefore, the correct answer is a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms.