which statement confirms that the cell membrane is selectively permeable

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Practice Science Test

1. Which statement confirms that the cell membrane is selectively permeable?

A. Receptors are found on a cell's surface.
B. Cells communicate with each other using cell signals.
C. Environmental changes can cause a cell to expand or shrink.
D. Sodium ions must travel through ion channels to enter the cell.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because selective permeability is demonstrated by the fact that specific ions, such as sodium, require ion channels to cross the cell membrane. This process allows the cell to control what substances can enter or exit, highlighting the selective nature of the cell membrane. Choices A, B, and C do not directly relate to the concept of selective permeability of the cell membrane. Receptors on a cell's surface (Choice A) are involved in cell signaling rather than selective permeability. Cell communication through signals (Choice B) and environmental changes affecting cell size (Choice C) are not directly related to the selective permeability of the cell membrane, which specifically refers to the regulation of substances passing through the membrane.

2. Which of the following enzymes is responsible for adding a nucleotide to a growing DNA chain?

A. Helicase
B. Ligase
C. Nuclease
D. Polymerase

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is Polymerase. Polymerase is the enzyme responsible for adding nucleotides to a growing DNA chain during DNA replication. Helicase unwinds the DNA double helix to separate the DNA strands for replication, Ligase joins DNA fragments together by catalyzing the formation of phosphodiester bonds between them, and Nuclease cuts or degrades DNA strands. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect in the context of adding nucleotides to a growing DNA chain.

3. The Human Genome Project is a worldwide research project launched in 1990 to map the entire human genome. Although the Project was faced with the monumental challenge of analyzing tons of data, its objective was completed in 2003, two years ahead of its deadline. Which of the following inventions likely had the greatest impact on this project?

A. The sonogram
B. X-ray diffraction
C. The microprocessor
D. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The microprocessor, a key component of modern computers, played a crucial role in the success of the Human Genome Project. The ability of microprocessors to process vast amounts of data quickly and efficiently allowed scientists to analyze the massive amounts of genetic information generated by the project. This technological advancement significantly accelerated the pace of genome sequencing and data analysis, ultimately leading to the completion of the project ahead of schedule. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The sonogram is used for imaging in medical diagnostics, X-ray diffraction is a technique for studying the structure of materials at the atomic level, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body. While these inventions have their own importance in various fields, they did not have the same impact on the Human Genome Project as the microprocessor did.

4. Antibodies, crucial for immune defense, are produced by:

A. Neutrophils
B. Lymphocytes
C. Monocytes
D. Basophils

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Antibodies are produced by a specific type of lymphocyte known as B cells. B cells are a critical component of the adaptive immune system and are responsible for producing antibodies in response to pathogens. Neutrophils, monocytes, and basophils are types of white blood cells that are part of the innate immune response and do not have the function of producing antibodies. Neutrophils are primarily involved in phagocytosis, monocytes differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells for antigen presentation, while basophils are involved in allergic reactions and parasitic infections.

5. Which of the following is an end product of cellular respiration?

A. Oxygen
B. ATP energy
C. Carbon dioxide
D. Water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: ATP energy. During cellular respiration, glucose is broken down to produce ATP, which is the primary energy currency of cells. While oxygen is required for cellular respiration to occur, it is not an end product but rather a reactant. Carbon dioxide and water are byproducts of cellular respiration, alongside ATP. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not end products of cellular respiration.