HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology 2024
1. What is the function of decomposition in the carbon cycle?
- A. To produce light energy
- B. To convert carbon to fuel
- C. To release carbon dioxide
- D. To store food for consumers
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To release carbon dioxide.' Decomposition in the carbon cycle involves breaking down dead organic matter into simpler substances. During this process, carbon is released in the form of carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This release of carbon dioxide is essential for recycling carbon and making it available for use by living organisms. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because decomposition does not produce light energy, convert carbon to fuel, or store food for consumers; its primary role is to recycle carbon through the release of carbon dioxide.
2. Which color of light is least effective at driving photosynthesis?
- A. Violet
- B. Green
- C. Orange
- D. Red
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Green light is the least effective at driving photosynthesis because chlorophyll, the primary pigment responsible for absorbing light in plants, does not absorb green light well. Instead, chlorophyll absorbs more effectively in the blue and red regions of the light spectrum. Therefore, green light is relatively less efficient in promoting photosynthesis compared to violet, orange, and red light. Violet light, although at the shorter wavelength end of the spectrum, can still drive photosynthesis better than green light. Orange and red light are more efficiently absorbed by chlorophyll, making them more effective in driving the process of photosynthesis.
3. What process do cells in the tip of a plant’s root undergo to increase in number?
- A. Meiosis
- B. Cytokinesis
- C. Fractioning
- D. Mitosis
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Cells in the tip of a plant's root undergo the process of mitosis to increase in number. Mitosis is a type of cell division that results in two daughter cells with the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. This process allows for growth and maintenance of tissues in plants by producing new cells through division. Choice A, Meiosis, is incorrect as meiosis is a type of cell division that reduces the number of chromosomes in cells to produce gametes. Choice B, Cytokinesis, is incorrect as it is the division of the cytoplasm following cell division. Choice C, Fractioning, is not a biological process related to cell division.
4. Which animal has an open transport system?
- A. Grasshopper
- B. Earthworm
- C. Dolphin
- D. Chicken
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Earthworm. Earthworms have an open circulatory system, meaning their blood and interstitial fluid are not enclosed in blood vessels. Instead, the blood flows freely within the body cavity, allowing for direct exchange of nutrients and waste products with surrounding tissues. This lack of a closed transport system is a characteristic feature of earthworms. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because grasshoppers, dolphins, and chickens have closed circulatory systems where the blood is enclosed within blood vessels, unlike earthworms.
5. How does yeast reproduce?
- A. Binary fission
- B. Spore formation
- C. Budding
- D. Cloning
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Yeast typically reproduces through a process called budding. During budding, a small outgrowth forms on the parent yeast cell, gradually enlarging in size until it separates to become a new, genetically identical daughter cell. This method of reproduction allows yeast to rapidly multiply and grow in favorable conditions. It is different from binary fission, spore formation, and cloning. Binary fission involves the division of a single organism into two genetically identical organisms. Spore formation is a method seen in certain fungi where specialized cells develop into spores for reproduction. Cloning involves producing genetically identical copies of an organism. Therefore, budding is the correct answer for how yeast reproduces.
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