dandruff is caused by

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What causes dandruff?

A. Excessive sebum production (This can contribute to oily dandruff)
B. Bacterial infection (This can cause scalp folliculitis, not dandruff)
C. Overgrowth of a specific type of fungus on the scalp
D. Lack of proper skin hydration

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dandruff is primarily caused by an overgrowth of a specific type of fungus called Malassezia on the scalp. This fungus feeds on the natural oils produced by the hair follicles, leading to irritation and flaking of the scalp skin. Choice A is incorrect because excessive sebum production can contribute to oily dandruff, but it is not the primary cause of dandruff. Choice B is incorrect as bacterial infection primarily causes scalp folliculitis, not dandruff. Choice D is incorrect as dandruff is not primarily caused by a lack of proper skin hydration.

2. Which type of reaction builds larger and more complex molecules from smaller ones, requiring energy?

A. Catabolic reaction
B. Anabolic reaction
C. Exothermic reaction
D. Hydrolytic reaction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Anabolic reaction.' Anabolic reactions involve the synthesis of larger and more complex molecules from smaller ones, requiring an input of energy, often in the form of ATP. These reactions are essential for processes like growth, repair, and the building of cellular structures. Catabolic reactions, on the other hand, break down larger molecules into smaller ones, releasing energy. Exothermic reactions release heat, while hydrolytic reactions involve the breakdown of molecules with the addition of water. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not describe the process of building larger and more complex molecules from smaller ones with the requirement of energy.

3. What role does DNA play in evolution?

A. It stores genetic information that can be passed on to offspring.
B. It allows for mutations that can introduce new variations.
C. It regulates the expression of genes that influence traits.
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) DNA stores genetic information that is passed on from parents to offspring through the process of reproduction. This genetic information contains instructions for the development and functioning of an organism. It serves as the hereditary material that carries the blueprint for an organism's traits and characteristics, allowing for the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next. B) DNA can undergo mutations, which are changes in the genetic sequence. These mutations can introduce new variations in the DNA, leading to genetic diversity within a population. These variations are essential for natural selection and adaptation to changing environments. C) DNA plays a crucial role in regulating the expression of genes. Gene expression determines which proteins are produced in an organism, influencing its traits and characteristics. By controlling gene expression, DNA contributes to the development and maintenance of an organism's traits. D) Therefore, DNA is involved in all of the above processes, making it a key factor in evolution by driving genetic variation, inheritance, and gene expression. The interplay of these functions allows for the diversity and adaptation of species over time, shaping the evolutionary process.

4. What is the function of introns in eukaryotic genes?

A. They code for protein sequences.
B. They are involved in gene regulation.
C. They are removed during mRNA processing.
D. They are non-functional remnants of ancient DNA.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Introns do not code for protein sequences. Exons are the segments of DNA that code for proteins. B) While introns can indirectly influence gene regulation, their primary function is not directly involved in gene regulation. C) Introns are non-coding regions of DNA that are transcribed into pre-mRNA but are removed during mRNA processing through a process called splicing. This allows only the exons to be included in the mature mRNA that will be translated into proteins. D) While introns were once thought to be non-functional remnants of ancient DNA, research has shown that they can have regulatory functions and play a role in gene expression.

5. Which of the following is an example of an organ?

A. Skin
B. Neuron
C. Brainstem
D. DNA

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'Skin.' The skin is the largest organ in the human body and consists of multiple tissue types working together to perform various functions such as protection, sensation, and temperature regulation. Choice B, 'Neuron,' is a specialized cell in the nervous system and not an organ. Choice C, 'Brainstem,' is a part of the central nervous system composed of nerve tissues but is not an organ on its own. Choice D, 'DNA,' is a molecule that carries genetic instructions, not an organ.