Nursing Elites

1. What generates action potentials, the all-or-nothing electrical signals traveling along neurons?

• A. Glucose
• B. Sodium and potassium ions
• C. Neurotransmitters
• D. Myelin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Action potentials, the all-or-nothing electrical signals traveling along neurons, are generated by the movement of sodium and potassium ions across the neuronal membrane. This movement creates changes in the membrane potential, leading to the propagation of the electrical signal along the neuron. Glucose is a source of energy for neurons but is not directly involved in generating action potentials. Neurotransmitters are involved in communication between neurons but do not directly generate action potentials. Myelin is a fatty substance that insulates and speeds up the conduction of action potentials but does not generate them.

2. Which of the following statements best defines an organelle?

• A. Layer of polysaccharides outside the plasma membrane of cells.
• B. Abnormal infectious proteins.
• C. Specialized structures within a cell.
• D. Collection of tissues used to serve a specific function.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Specialized structures within a cell.' An organelle is a specialized subunit within a cell that has a specific function. Organelles are membrane-bound structures found within the cytoplasm of eukaryotic cells, each performing distinct roles that contribute to the overall functioning of the cell. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Option A describes the glycocalyx, which is a layer of polysaccharides outside the plasma membrane of cells. Option B refers to prions, abnormal infectious proteins. Option D defines an organ, a collection of tissues used to serve a specific function, rather than an organelle within a cell.

3. What is the main component that gives bones their rigidity and hardness?

• A. Collagen
• B. Calcium phosphate
• C. Cartilage
• D. Ligaments

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Calcium phosphate is the main component that gives bones their rigidity and hardness. It combines with calcium hydroxide to form hydroxyapatite crystals, which provide strength and structure to bones. Collagen, on the other hand, provides flexibility and tensile strength. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in joints, and ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones, but they do not contribute to the rigidity and hardness of bones.

4. What is the term for the tiny particles that make up atoms?

• A. Protons
• B. Electrons
• C. Neutrons
• D. Subatomic particles

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Subatomic particles.' Subatomic particles are the tiny components that constitute atoms, including protons, neutrons, and electrons. Protons and neutrons are located in the nucleus of an atom, while electrons revolve around the nucleus. Choices A, B, and C specifically refer to individual subatomic particles but do not encompass the complete range of particles within an atom.

5. Which structure connects the two hemispheres of the brain, allowing communication and coordination between them?

• A. Corpus callosum
• B. Thalamus
• C. Hypothalamus
• D. Medulla oblongata

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the corpus callosum. It is a thick band of nerve fibers that connects the two hemispheres of the brain, facilitating communication and coordination between them. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information, the hypothalamus regulates basic functions like hunger and thirst, and the medulla oblongata controls vital functions such as breathing and heart rate. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically connect the two hemispheres of the brain as the corpus callosum does.

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