Nursing Elites

1. How does the stability of an atom's nucleus influence its radioactive decay?

• A. Stable nuclei never undergo radioactive decay.
• B. Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes.
• C. Decay releases energy, making stable nuclei more prone to it.
• D. The element's position on the periodic table determines its decay rate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes. The stability of an atom's nucleus is a crucial factor in determining whether it will undergo radioactive decay. Unstable nuclei have an excess of either protons or neutrons, causing an imbalance in the nucleus. To achieve a more stable configuration, these nuclei will undergo radioactive decay by emitting particles or energy. On the contrary, stable nuclei are less likely to undergo radioactive decay as they possess a balanced number of protons and neutrons. Choice A is incorrect because stable nuclei can still undergo radioactive decay, albeit less frequently. Choice C is incorrect as decay does not make stable nuclei more prone to it; rather, it stabilizes them. Choice D is incorrect because an element's decay rate is primarily determined by the nucleus's stability, not its position on the periodic table.

2. What is the action of the triceps reflex?

• A. Forces contraction of the triceps and extension of the arm.
• B. Forces contraction of the biceps, relaxation of the biceps, and arm extension.
• C. Causes the triceps to contract, causing the forearm to supinate and flex.
• D. Causes the triceps to relax and the upper arm to pronate and extend.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The triceps reflex causes the triceps muscle to contract, leading to the extension of the arm. This reflex is a protective response to sudden stretching of the triceps muscle, as seen when a physician taps the triceps tendon during a physical examination. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately reflects the action of the triceps reflex. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they describe actions that are not associated with the triceps reflex. Biceps contraction, forearm supination, flexion, triceps relaxation, and pronation are not part of the triceps reflex arc.

3. What is the process of breaking down fatty acids into acetyl-CoA, a key molecule in cellular respiration, called?

• A. Beta-oxidation
• B. Lipolysis
• C. Carbohydrate catabolism
• D. Nucleic acid catabolism

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Beta-oxidation is the correct term for the process of breaking down fatty acids into acetyl-CoA molecules. This essential process takes place in the mitochondria and is a pivotal step in fatty acid metabolism for energy production. Lipolysis, however, refers to the breakdown of fats into fatty acids and glycerol but does not specifically involve the conversion of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA. Carbohydrate catabolism focuses on breaking down carbohydrates into glucose for energy production and is not directly linked to the conversion of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA. Nucleic acid catabolism involves the breakdown of nucleic acids into nucleotides and is not associated with the conversion of fatty acids into acetyl-CoA.

4. What type of reaction is represented by the following equation: 2C₆H₁₄ + 19O₂ → 12CO + 14H₂O?

• A. Substitution reaction
• B. Acid-base reaction
• C. Enzyme reaction
• D. Combustion reaction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The given chemical equation represents a combustion reaction. Combustion reactions involve the burning of a hydrocarbon (C₆H₁₄) in the presence of oxygen (O₂) to produce carbon monoxide (CO) and water (H₂O). Combustion reactions typically release heat and light energy. In this case, the reactants are a hydrocarbon and oxygen, resulting in the formation of carbon monoxide and water. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the reaction does not involve substitution, acid-base reactions, or enzyme catalysis. Combustion reactions are characterized by the rapid combination of a substance with oxygen, leading to the production of heat and light energy.

5. What is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body?

• A. Jugular vein
• B. Thoracic duct
• C. Subclavian vein
• D. Aorta

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body, responsible for draining lymph from most parts of the body except for the right upper quadrant. The jugular vein, subclavian vein, and aorta are not part of the lymphatic system; they are blood vessels and do not serve as lymphatic vessels. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not associated with the lymphatic system's transport of lymph.

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