which structure contains the genetic material dna of the cell

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. Which structure contains the genetic material (DNA) of the cell?

A. Cytoplasm
B. Nucleus
C. Cell wall (only present in plant cells)
D. Golgi apparatus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The nucleus is the organelle that contains the genetic material (DNA) of the cell. It acts as the control center of the cell, regulating gene expression and coordinating cellular activities. The cytoplasm is the fluid-filled space within the cell where organelles are suspended, but it does not contain the genetic material. The cell wall is a rigid structure found in plant cells that provides support and protection, but it does not house the DNA. The Golgi apparatus is involved in processing and packaging proteins for secretion, but it does not contain the genetic material of the cell.

2. What is the pH value of a neutral solution?

A. 0
B. 7
C. 14
D. -7

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The pH scale measures the acidity or basicity of a solution. A pH of 7 is considered neutral, indicating that the concentration of hydrogen ions (H+) is equal to the concentration of hydroxide ions (OH-) in the solution. A pH ranging from 0 to 6.9 signifies acidity, while a pH from 7.1 to 14 signifies alkalinity. Therefore, a neutral solution has a pH value of 7. Choice A (0) represents a highly acidic solution, Choices C (14) and D (-7) are outside the valid pH range and do not correspond to a neutral solution.

3. What is the difference between the atomic number and the mass number of an atom?

A. The atomic number is the number of protons in the nucleus, while the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
B. The atomic number is the number of electrons in an atom, while the mass number is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.
C. The atomic number is the number of neutrons in the nucleus, while the mass number is the total number of protons and electrons in an atom.
D. The atomic number is the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, while the mass number is the total number of electrons in an atom.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The atomic number of an atom represents the number of protons in its nucleus, which defines the element's identity. On the other hand, the mass number corresponds to the total sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. Therefore, the key distinction between the atomic number and the mass number lies in the fact that the atomic number specifically counts the protons, whereas the mass number encompasses both protons and neutrons. Choice B is incorrect because the atomic number is not related to the number of electrons but rather to the number of protons. Choice C is incorrect because the atomic number is not the number of neutrons but the number of protons. Choice D is incorrect because the atomic number does not include neutrons; it is solely the number of protons.

4. Which type of cell has a nucleus but lacks membrane-bound organelles?

A. Plant cell
B. Prokaryotic cell
C. Animal cell
D. Fungal cell

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Prokaryotic cell. Prokaryotic cells are characterized by having a nucleus that is not enclosed within a membrane (nuclear envelope) and lacking membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. Plant, animal, and fungal cells are eukaryotic cells, which have a true nucleus enclosed within a nuclear envelope and contain membrane-bound organelles. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect as they all represent eukaryotic cells that possess membrane-bound organelles.

5. According to the theory of evolution by natural selection, which of the following statements is true?

A. Organisms evolve towards perfection
B. Traits are acquired through use and disuse
C. Individuals with favorable traits survive and reproduce more
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Organisms evolve towards perfection - This statement is incorrect. Evolution by natural selection does not suggest that organisms evolve towards perfection. Instead, it emphasizes the adaptation of organisms to their environment over time. B) Traits are acquired through use and disuse - This statement reflects Lamarck's theory of evolution, not Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. Lamarck proposed that organisms could acquire traits during their lifetime and pass them on to their offspring, which has been largely discredited. C) Individuals with favorable traits survive and reproduce more - This statement accurately reflects the central concept of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. Individuals with traits that are advantageous in their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on those traits to future generations. D) All of the above - This option is incorrect because not all of the statements are true. Only option C accurately represents the theory of evolution by natural selection.