how is the plasma membrane arranged

HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

1. How is the plasma membrane arranged?

A. In a single layer made of proteins
B. In a double layer made of proteins
C. In a single layer of phospholipids
D. In a double layer of phospholipids

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The plasma membrane is arranged in a double layer of phospholipids, known as a phospholipid bilayer. This structure consists of two layers of phospholipid molecules with hydrophilic heads facing the exterior and hydrophobic tails facing the interior, providing a semipermeable barrier for the cell. Choice A is incorrect because the plasma membrane is not made of a single layer of proteins. Choice B is incorrect as the double layer is composed of phospholipids, not proteins. Choice C is incorrect as the plasma membrane is not made of a single layer of phospholipids but rather a double layer.

2. From which component do RNA and DNA derive their names?

A. From the sugar each contains
B. From the structure of their nucleotides
C. From the information they transfer
D. From their formative processes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: RNA and DNA derive their names from the sugar each contains. RNA stands for Ribonucleic Acid, with 'ribo' indicating the ribose sugar in its structure. DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, with 'deoxyribo' referring to the deoxyribose sugar in its structure. The sugars in RNA and DNA molecules distinguish them and are the basis for their names. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately explain how RNA and DNA derive their names.

3. The apical side of an epithelial cell:

A. Is exposed to fluid or air
B. Is on the bottom side of the cell
C. Does not allow any substances to pass through
D. None of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The apical side of an epithelial cell is the top side, which is typically exposed to fluids, air, or the inside of an organ. This side allows substances to pass through it, facilitating the absorption, secretion, or excretion of various substances. Choice B is incorrect as the apical side is not on the bottom but the top side. Choice C is incorrect as the apical side does allow substances to pass through. Choice D is incorrect as there are characteristics associated with the apical side.

4. Where is the genetic code for each person stored?

A. RNA
B. DNA
C. Nucleus
D. Chromosomes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The genetic code for each person is stored in DNA. DNA carries all the hereditary information, including unique traits and characteristics. RNA (Choice A) is involved in protein synthesis but does not hold the complete genetic code. The nucleus (Choice C) is a cellular organelle that houses the DNA, but it is not the genetic code itself. Chromosomes (Choice D) are structures made of DNA and proteins, but the genetic code is specifically encoded in the DNA molecule.

5. Muscles are connected to bones by , and bones are connected to each other by .

A. Muscles
B. Tendons, ligaments
C. Muscles
D. Ligaments

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Muscles are connected to bones by tendons, which allow the muscle to exert force on the bone for movement. Bones are connected to each other by ligaments, which provide stability and support to the joints between bones. This relationship between muscles, tendons, bones, and ligaments is essential for proper movement and function of the musculoskeletal system. Choice A is incorrect because muscles are not directly connected to bones; tendons serve as the connection between muscles and bones. Choice D is incorrect because ligaments connect bones to each other, not muscles to bones.