why is it important for cells to undergo mitosis

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

1. Why is it important for cells to undergo mitosis?

A. mitosis allows for reproduction with male and female gametes
B. mitosis increases variation within the species
C. mitosis produces cells that are different from the parent cell
D. mitosis produces cells for growth and repair of body tissue

Correct answer: D

Rationale: It is important for cells to undergo mitosis because it produces cells for the growth and repair of body tissues. Mitosis allows for the formation of genetically identical daughter cells, ensuring proper function and maintenance of the organism's body. By producing new cells, mitosis helps in the replenishment of damaged or worn-out tissue and supports overall growth and development. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because mitosis is not directly related to reproduction with male and female gametes, increasing variation within the species, or producing cells different from the parent cell. These functions are more associated with meiosis, which is specifically for sexual reproduction and genetic diversity.

2. What is the main function of the cell membrane?

A. Energy production
B. Communication
C. Protein synthesis
D. Waste removal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the cell membrane is communication. It acts as a barrier that regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell, maintaining cellular homeostasis. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because energy production occurs in the mitochondria, protein synthesis takes place in the ribosomes, and waste removal is primarily handled by the lysosomes and other organelles within the cell.

3. Which is true of the term Phenotype?

A. It is the genetic code
B. Phenotype determines genotype
C. Genotype determines phenotype
D. Genotype, epigenetic factors, and environmental factors determine phenotype

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The term "phenotype" refers to the observable characteristics or traits of an organism, which are determined by a combination of genotype (genetic makeup), epigenetic factors (modifications to gene expression), and environmental factors (external influences and experiences). Genotype, epigenetic factors, and environmental factors all play a role in determining an individual's phenotype, making option D the correct statement. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because the phenotype is not the genetic code, the phenotype does not determine the genotype, and it is the genotype that influences the phenotype, not the other way around.

4. A child is sick. They have a body temperature that exceeds 37ºC. The body senses this and begins to sweat in order to lower the temperature. What is this an example of?

A. Positive feedback loop
B. Negative feedback loop
C. Both
D. None of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: This is an example of a negative feedback loop. In a negative feedback loop, the body's response (sweating) works to counteract the initial stimulus of a high body temperature by cooling the body down. The goal is to return the body to homeostasis, maintaining a stable internal environment. Positive feedback loops amplify the initial stimulus rather than counteracting it, which is not the case here. Therefore, choices A and C are incorrect. Choice D is also incorrect as the situation described fits the characteristics of a negative feedback loop.

5. What is the role of tRNA during protein synthesis?

A. Carries amino acids to the ribosome
B. Links nucleotides together
C. Copies DNA sequences
D. Replicates genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During protein synthesis, tRNA plays the crucial role of carrying amino acids to the ribosome. This process ensures that the correct amino acids are brought to the ribosome according to the mRNA sequence. Choice B, linking nucleotides together, refers to the role of RNA polymerase in transcription, not tRNA. Choice C, copying DNA sequences, is the function of DNA polymerase during DNA replication, while choice D, replicating genetic material, is an overarching function of DNA replication, not specific to tRNA's role in protein synthesis.