which technology allows scientists to directly edit the human genome

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science study guide free

1. Which technology allows scientists to directly edit the human genome?

A. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
B. Gel electrophoresis
C. DNA sequencing
D. CRISPR-Cas9

Correct answer: D

Rationale: CRISPR-Cas9 is the correct answer. A) Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used for amplifying specific DNA segments, not directly editing the human genome. B) Gel electrophoresis is for separating DNA fragments by size, not for genome editing. C) DNA sequencing determines DNA nucleotide order but does not directly edit the genome. D) CRISPR-Cas9 technology enables precise modifications in the DNA of organisms, including humans. It guides the Cas9 enzyme to specific genome locations for targeted edits, revolutionizing genetic research and offering various applications in gene editing and therapy. Unlike the other techniques mentioned, CRISPR-Cas9 is specifically designed to make changes in the genetic code itself, making it a powerful tool for genetic manipulation.

2. What is the function of the epiglottis?

A. Produces saliva
B. Senses taste
C. Prevents food from entering the windpipe
D. Filters blood

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the windpipe (trachea) during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action ensures that food and liquids are directed to the esophagus and down into the stomach, rather than entering the respiratory system, which could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as they describe functions of other structures in the body that are not related to the role of the epiglottis.

3. What are the three main types of muscle tissue in the human body?

A. Smooth, cardiac, and voluntary skeletal
B. Smooth, skeletal, and involuntary cardiac
C. Voluntary smooth, cardiac, and skeletal
D. Striated, non-striated, and epithelial

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The three main types of muscle tissue in the human body are smooth muscle (involuntary), cardiac muscle (involuntary), and voluntary skeletal muscle. Smooth muscle is found in the walls of hollow organs, cardiac muscle is found in the heart, and skeletal muscle is attached to bones and is under voluntary control. Option A correctly identifies these three main types of muscle tissue in the human body. Choice B is incorrect because it lists skeletal muscle as involuntary, which is not accurate. Choice C is incorrect because it lists voluntary smooth muscle, which does not exist as smooth muscle is involuntary. Choice D is incorrect because it uses terms like striated, non-striated, and epithelial, which are not the main types of muscle tissue but rather descriptions related to muscle characteristics and location.

4. A ball is thrown horizontally off a cliff with a speed of 10 m/s. What is the horizontal distance the ball travels before hitting the ground?

A. 10 m
B. 20 m
C. 30 m
D. Cannot be determined without knowing the height of the cliff

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a ball is thrown horizontally, its horizontal velocity remains constant throughout its motion. The horizontal distance traveled by the ball is determined by the horizontal velocity and the time taken to hit the ground. In this case, the horizontal distance is calculated as distance = velocity × time. Since the horizontal velocity is 10 m/s, the horizontal distance traveled by the ball is 10 m/s × time. The time taken to hit the ground is determined by the vertical motion, which is independent of the horizontal velocity. Therefore, without knowing the height of the cliff, we can still determine the horizontal distance traveled by the ball. The horizontal distance is solely dependent on the horizontal velocity and the time of flight, which are not influenced by the height of the cliff. Hence, the correct answer is 30 m. Choice A, 10 m, is incorrect as it does not consider the time of flight. Choice B, 20 m, is incorrect as it does not account for the constant horizontal velocity. Choice D, 'Cannot be determined without knowing the height of the cliff,' is incorrect because the horizontal distance can be calculated independently of the height of the cliff.

5. Which statement is TRUE about valence electrons?

A. They are located in the innermost electron shell.
B. They have the highest binding energy to the nucleus.
C. They are most likely to participate in chemical bonding.
D. They have no influence on the element's chemical properties.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Valence electrons are the outermost electrons in an atom's electron cloud and are crucial in forming chemical bonds with other atoms. These electrons determine the reactivity and chemical properties of an element, making option C the correct statement. Option A is incorrect as valence electrons are found in the outer shell, not the innermost shell. Option B is incorrect because valence electrons have lower binding energy compared to inner electrons. Option D is incorrect since valence electrons play a significant role in an element's chemical behavior.