HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology Practice Test
1. The procedure to focus an image using a compound microscope involves
- A. Adjusting the coarse adjustment each time a new magnification is selected
- B. Adjusting the fine adjustment each time a new magnification is selected
- C. Adjusting the stage each time a new magnification is selected
- D. All of the above
Correct answer: B
Rationale: When using a compound microscope, it is essential to adjust the fine adjustment knob each time you switch to a new magnification level. The fine adjustment knob allows for precise focusing on the specimen at different magnifications, ensuring a clear and sharp image. The coarse adjustment knob is typically used only at the lower magnification settings to bring the image into view roughly. Adjusting the stage may be necessary based on the size and thickness of the specimen, but it does not need to be done every time a new magnification is selected. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it focuses on the key aspect of precise focusing during magnification changes.
2. Which organelle would you expect to be present in a cell responsible for detoxifying multiple molecules?
- A. rough ER
- B. smooth ER
- C. lysosome
- D. Golgi apparatus
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is the organelle responsible for detoxifying multiple molecules in a cell. It contains enzymes that help break down toxins and drugs, making it an essential organelle for detoxification processes. The rough ER, lysosome, and Golgi apparatus do not play direct roles in detoxification. The rough ER is mainly involved in protein synthesis and transport. Lysosomes are responsible for digestion and recycling within the cell. The Golgi apparatus is involved in modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins for secretion or for use within the cell.
3. Enzymes are typically _ _.
- A. Fats
- B. Proteins
- C. Sugars
- D. Neurons
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Enzymes are typically proteins that act as biological catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions in living organisms. While most enzymes are made of proteins, a few exceptions, known as ribozymes, are made of RNA. Proteins are composed of amino acids arranged in specific sequences that give enzymes their unique shape and functionality. Choice A, 'Fats,' is incorrect as enzymes are not typically composed of fats. Choice C, 'Sugars,' is incorrect as enzymes are not typically composed of sugars. Choice D, 'Neurons,' is incorrect as neurons are a type of cell in the nervous system, not typically associated with enzymes.
4. Epithelial cells are:
- A. Polarized
- B. Neutral
- C. Larger than other cells
- D. None of the above
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Epithelial cells have a distinct top (apical) and bottom (basal) side, demonstrating polarity. This polarity is essential for their specialized functions, such as secretion, absorption, and barrier formation. Choice B, 'Neutral,' is incorrect as epithelial cells exhibit polarity. Choice C, 'Larger than other cells,' is incorrect as epithelial cells come in various sizes and are not specifically larger than other cell types. Choice D, 'None of the above,' is incorrect as epithelial cells are indeed polarized.
5. Where is DNA stored?
- A. The nucleus
- B. Ribosomes
- C. Endoplasmic reticulum
- D. Mitochondria
Correct answer: A
Rationale: DNA is stored in the nucleus of a cell. The nucleus houses the cell's genetic material, including the DNA, which contains the instructions for building and operating the cell. The nucleus controls the activities of the cell and is essential for proper cell function and reproduction. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, not DNA storage. The endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein and lipid synthesis, storage, and transport but does not store DNA. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell, producing energy in the form of ATP, but they do not store DNA.
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