Nursing Elites

1. What impact would the removal of a keystone species have in an ecosystem?

• A. Lead to a decrease in competition among other species
• B. Cause a slight increase in primary productivity
• C. Have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure
• D. Disrupt the food web and cause cascading effects on other populations

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Keystone species play a crucial role in maintaining the balance and structure of an ecosystem due to their significant influence. If a keystone species is removed, it disrupts the delicate food web dynamics and can trigger cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. The disruption in predator-prey relationships can lead to population declines and even extinctions of other species. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because the removal of a keystone species would not decrease competition among other species, cause a slight increase in primary productivity, or have a minimal impact on the overall ecosystem structure. Instead, it would have a profound impact, disrupting the food web and causing cascading effects on other populations.

2. Which structure in the digestive system absorbs the most nutrients?

• A. Stomach
• B. Small intestine
• C. Large intestine
• D. Esophagus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site where the absorption of nutrients from digested food occurs. Its large surface area, specialized cells, and villi play key roles in maximizing nutrient absorption, making it the structure in the digestive system that absorbs the most nutrients. The stomach's main function is to break down food with acid and enzymes, not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach and does not play a role in nutrient absorption.

3. What is the molar mass of Ca(NO3)2?

• A. 74.1 g/mol
• B. 132.1 g/mol
• C. 164.1 g/mol
• D. 78.1 g/mol

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To calculate the molar mass of Ca(NO3)2, we add up the individual atomic masses of its elements: Ca (40.08) + 2N (2 * 14.01) + 6O (6 * 16.00) = 40.08 + 28.02 + 96.00 = 164.1 g/mol. Therefore, the correct answer is 164.1 g/mol (Choice C). Choice A (74.1 g/mol) is incorrect as it does not account for the correct sum of atomic masses. Choice B (132.1 g/mol) is the correct molar mass calculation for Ca(NO3)2. Choice D (78.1 g/mol) is incorrect and does not reflect the accurate molar mass of the compound.

4. What is the main function of estuaries?

• A. Filtering pollutants from water
• B. Providing habitat for marine life
• C. Storing carbon dioxide
• D. Generating wind power

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Estuaries are coastal areas where freshwater from rivers and streams mixes with saltwater from the ocean. They serve as important habitats for a variety of marine life, including fish, birds, and other wildlife. Estuaries provide shelter, breeding grounds, and food sources for many species, making them crucial for the overall health of marine ecosystems. While estuaries can help filter pollutants to some extent, their primary function is to support and sustain diverse populations of plants and animals. Storing carbon dioxide and generating wind power are not main functions of estuaries.

5. What is the function of arrector pili muscles?

• A. To control sweat production
• B. To contract and cause goosebumps
• C. To produce sebum
• D. To sense touch

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct function of arrector pili muscles is to contract and cause goosebumps. These small muscles are attached to hair follicles in mammals. When they contract, they cause the hair to stand on end, resulting in goosebumps. This physiological response is often triggered by cold temperatures or emotional states like fear, helping mammals conserve heat or appear larger in threatening situations. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Arrector pili muscles are not involved in controlling sweat production (Choice A), producing sebum (Choice C), or sensing touch (Choice D).

Similar Questions