binary fission is a type of asexual reproduction which of the following occurs during the binary fission process

HESI RN

Biology Test

1. Binary fission is a type of asexual reproduction. Which of the following occurs during the binary fission process?

A. The chromosomes bind to the plasma membrane
B. The chromosomes attach to the spindle formed along the axis
C. The chromosomes gather in the center of the cell
D. The chromosomes begin to separate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. In binary fission, the chromosomes bind to the plasma membrane before the cell splits into two. This initial step ensures that each daughter cell receives a complete set of genetic material. Choice B is incorrect because the spindle apparatus is characteristic of eukaryotic cell division (mitosis), not prokaryotic binary fission. Choice C is incorrect as chromosomes do not necessarily gather in the center of the cell during binary fission. Choice D is incorrect because the chromosomes do not begin to separate in binary fission; they replicate and then move to opposite ends of the cell before division.

2. What is the composition of the cellular membrane?

A. A bilayer of phospholipid molecules
B. A single layer of phospholipid molecules
C. Proteins that act as transport highways
D. Carbohydrates

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cellular membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which consists of two layers of phospholipid molecules. These molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, creating a barrier that separates the internal cellular environment from the external surroundings. While proteins are embedded within this bilayer and act as transport channels, receptors, and structural support, carbohydrates are found on the outer surface of the membrane for cell recognition and signaling purposes. Therefore, the correct answer is a bilayer of phospholipid molecules.

3. Which of the following molecules acts as the genetic code's messenger?

A. RNA
B. Proteins
C. DNA
D. Carbohydrates

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is RNA. RNA, particularly mRNA, serves as the messenger that carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome, where proteins are synthesized. Proteins (choice B) are not the genetic code's messenger; they are synthesized based on the information carried by RNA. DNA (choice C) stores the genetic information but does not directly act as the messenger. Carbohydrates (choice D) are not involved in transmitting genetic information.

4. Which of the following correctly identifies the two types of cells?

A. Mitosis and meiosis
B. Mitochondrion and chloroplast
C. Genotype and phenotype
D. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Cells are classified into two major types: prokaryotic, which lack a nucleus, and eukaryotic, which have a defined nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles. Choice A, mitosis and meiosis, refers to cell division processes. Choice B, mitochondrion and chloroplast, are cell organelles involved in energy production and photosynthesis, respectively. Choice C, genotype and phenotype, relate to genetic characteristics and physical traits, not cell types.

5. Phagocytes in the immune system are responsible for the biological action of which of the following?

A. Secreting
B. Consuming
C. Altering
D. Building

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Consuming. Phagocytes are cells that engulf and digest pathogens, dead cells, and other harmful particles, playing a crucial role in the immune system's defense. Phagocytes do not secrete substances, alter particles, or build structures; their primary function is to consume and eliminate harmful entities.