Nursing Elites

1. Decomposers in an ecosystem play a vital role by:

• A. Photosynthesizing and producing organic matter
• B. Breaking down dead organisms and returning nutrients to the environment
• C. Preying on herbivores and controlling their populations
• D. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere and making it available to plants

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances. By doing so, they help to recycle nutrients back into the environment, making them available for other organisms to use. This process is essential for the functioning of ecosystems, as it ensures that nutrients are not lost but instead are continuously cycled through the ecosystem. Photosynthesis (option A) is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, and it is not a role of decomposers. Preying on herbivores (option C) is a role typically carried out by predators, not decomposers. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere (option D) is a process carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria, not decomposers.

2. Which of the following is a true statement about dominance in genetics?

• A. All genes adhere to Mendel’s law of dominance.
• B. A dominant allele will always be expressed.
• C. When two dominant alleles are present, the resulting phenotype will express both traits.
• D. There are three or more alleles possible for all genes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In genetics, dominance refers to the relationship between two different alleles of a gene where one allele (dominant) masks the expression of another allele (recessive) in an individual's phenotype. The correct statement about dominance is that a dominant allele will always be expressed in the phenotype, even in the presence of a recessive allele. This means that if an individual has at least one dominant allele for a particular trait, that trait will be expressed. Choice A is incorrect because not all genes follow Mendel’s law of dominance; exceptions do exist. Choice C is incorrect because when two dominant alleles are present, only one will be expressed due to complete dominance. Choice D is incorrect as there can be more than three alleles for a gene, and not all genes have three or more alleles.

3. What is the primary function of Bartholin's glands?

• A. Secretes hormones that help the body respond to stress
• B. Provide lubrication for the vagina
• C. Helps control growth and development of the body
• D. Stimulate the development of T cells

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Bartholin's glands are two small glands located on each side of the vaginal opening. Their primary function is to secrete fluids that help lubricate the vagina during sexual arousal. This lubrication helps to reduce friction and discomfort during sexual activity, making intercourse more comfortable and pleasurable. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Bartholin's glands do not secrete hormones to respond to stress, control growth and development, or stimulate the development of T cells. Their main role is specifically related to vaginal lubrication.

4. A substance is only considered acidic if it has a pH less than what?

• A. 12
• B. 9
• C. 7
• D. 4

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A substance is considered acidic if its pH is less than 7. pH values below 7 indicate acidity, while pH values above 7 indicate alkalinity or basicity. Substances with a pH less than 7 are categorized as acidic, not above it. Therefore, a substance is classified as acidic if its pH is less than 7, making choice C the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a pH of 12, 9, and 4, respectively, are all above 7, and therefore not indicative of acidity.

5. Based on the results that were stated, what would be a logical reason for some of the plants dying with the salt solution?

• A. Salt caused the plants to begin to dry up, leading to their death.
• B. The salt did not affect the plants.
• C. The salt provided adequate nutrients for growth.
• D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The most logical reason for some of the plants dying with the salt solution could be that salt caused the plants to begin to dry up, leading to their death. Excessive salt can disrupt the osmotic balance within plants, causing dehydration and ultimately death. Salt can create a hypertonic environment, drawing water out of plant cells and causing wilting and damage. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the presence of salt could have dried out some of the plants and caused them to die. Choices B and C are incorrect as the scenario presented indicates that the salt had a negative impact on the plants, causing some to die. Choice D is also incorrect as there is a valid reason provided for the plants dying due to the salt solution.

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