HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology 2024
1. How do green plants use nitrates in the nitrogen cycle?
- A. To synthesize proteins
- B. To store food
- C. To decompose ammonia
- D. To break down nitrites
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Green plants use nitrates in the nitrogen cycle to synthesize proteins. Nitrogen is an essential component of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Plants take up nitrates from the soil through their roots and incorporate nitrogen into their proteins through the process of protein biosynthesis. This helps in their growth, development, and overall health. Choice B, 'To store food,' is incorrect because nitrates are primarily used for protein synthesis, not food storage. Choice C, 'To decompose ammonia,' is incorrect as plants do not decompose ammonia but rather utilize it through nitrification. Choice D, 'To break down nitrites,' is incorrect as plants typically convert nitrites into nitrates through a process called nitrate assimilation for protein synthesis.
2. How should a researcher test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure?
- A. Record the blood pressure of one male and one female participant before and after participating in a yoga class.
- B. Divide 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure; test each participant’s blood pressure after participating in a yoga class.
- C. Divide 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure; have one group watch television for an hour while the other takes a yoga class, record each participant’s blood pressure after the hour. Repeat daily for two weeks.
- D. Start with 15 men and 15 women; have the men watch television for an hour while the women take a yoga class, record each participant’s blood pressure after the hour. Reverse, having the men take a yoga class while the women watch television.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Option B is the most appropriate way to test the hypothesis that practicing yoga reduces blood pressure. By dividing 30 female participants into two groups with similar average blood pressure levels and testing each participant's blood pressure after participating in a yoga class, the researcher can effectively evaluate the impact of yoga on blood pressure. This design allows for a comparison between the two groups, helping to isolate the effects of yoga practice on blood pressure. Option A only involves one male and one female participant, which may not provide a representative sample. Option C introduces an additional variable of watching television, which could confound the results. Option D lacks consistency in the experimental design by switching the activities between men and women, making it difficult to attribute any observed changes solely to yoga practice.
3. 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.
4. Which is not one of the raw materials needed for cellular respiration?
- A. ADP
- B. Phosphate
- C. Water
- D. Glucose
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Water is not one of the raw materials needed for cellular respiration. The essential raw materials for cellular respiration include glucose (which is broken down to produce energy), oxygen, and ADP (adenosine diphosphate) and phosphate (which are necessary for the formation of ATP, the energy currency of cells). While water is crucial for many cellular processes and makes up a significant portion of cells, it is not directly involved as a raw material in the cellular respiration process.
5. Which of the following animals would have the least energy efficiency in nutrient consumption?
- A. Cow
- B. Caterpillar
- C. Coyote
- D. Cricket
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Cows are ruminant animals that have multiple stomachs and require large amounts of food to digest and convert into energy. They have lower energy efficiency compared to insects like caterpillars, coyotes, and crickets, which have more efficient nutrient consumption processes. The digestive system and metabolic functions of cows result in them having the least energy efficiency in nutrient consumption among the given choices. Caterpillars, coyotes, and crickets have more efficient nutrient consumption processes, making them more energy-efficient than cows.
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