HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. In the hierarchical organizational system, which of these is the most restrictive category?
- A. Genus
- B. Class
- C. Kingdom
- D. Species
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In the biological classification hierarchy, species is the most specific level, defining individual organisms that can interbreed. While genus, class, and kingdom are also categories in the hierarchy, they are broader and encompass a wider range of organisms compared to species. Genus groups together similar species, class groups similar orders, and kingdom is the broadest category grouping together similar phyla.
2. The bilayer of the cellular membrane consists of phospholipids with all except which of the following scattered throughout?
- A. Nucleic acids
- B. Cholesterol
- C. Proteins
- D. Glycoproteins
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The cellular membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with cholesterol, proteins, and glycoproteins distributed throughout. Nucleic acids are not found within the cellular membrane. Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity, while proteins and glycoproteins play important roles in cell signaling, transport, and structural support.
3. Where can ribosomes be found inside a cell?
- A. Attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and in the cytoplasm
- B. Within the cellular membrane
- C. Attached to the Golgi apparatus and in the cytoplasm
- D. Within the nucleus
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Ribosomes can be found attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or free-floating in the cytoplasm. The correct answer is A because ribosomes are responsible for synthesizing proteins and are commonly found on the ER or in the cytoplasm. Choice B is incorrect because ribosomes are not typically located within the cellular membrane. Choice C is incorrect as ribosomes are not attached to the Golgi apparatus; instead, they are involved in protein synthesis. Choice D is incorrect as ribosomes are not found within the nucleus but rather in the cytoplasm or attached to the ER.
4. Which two items react during cellular respiration?
- A. Glucose and water
- B. Carbon dioxide and water
- C. Carbon dioxide and oxygen
- D. Glucose and oxygen
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Glucose and oxygen. During cellular respiration, glucose and oxygen react in the presence of enzymes to produce carbon dioxide, water, and energy in the form of ATP. Choice A (Glucose and water) is incorrect because water is a product of cellular respiration, not a reactant. Choice B (Carbon dioxide and water) is incorrect as carbon dioxide is produced during cellular respiration, not a reactant. Choice C (Carbon dioxide and oxygen) is incorrect because oxygen is a reactant in cellular respiration, not a product.
5. What is the most significant contributor to cellular function?
- A. Proteins
- B. Phospholipids
- C. Carbohydrates
- D. Fatty acids
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Proteins. Proteins are the most significant contributor to cellular function as they play crucial roles in almost all biological processes. They act as enzymes that catalyze reactions, are involved in cell signaling pathways, and provide structural support to cells. Phospholipids (Choice B), while important for cell membrane structure, do not have the same diverse functions as proteins in cellular processes. Carbohydrates (Choice C) primarily serve as an energy source and structural components but are not as versatile in cellular functions as proteins. Fatty acids (Choice D) are essential components of cell membranes and energy storage molecules but do not have the same broad range of functions as proteins in cellular processes.
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