Nursing Elites

1. When a biologist describes the physical and visible expression of a genetic trait, which of the following is being referred to?

• A. Phenotype
• B. Allele
• C. Gamete
• D. Genotype

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Phenotype. Phenotype specifically refers to the observable physical characteristics resulting from the interaction of an individual's genetic makeup (genotype) with environmental influences. It represents the outward expression of an organism's genetic makeup. Allele, represented by choice B, refers to different forms of a gene and is not the visible expression of a trait. Gamete, represented by choice C, is a reproductive cell and not directly related to the physical expression of traits. Genotype, represented by choice D, refers to the genetic makeup of an organism and is distinct from the observable physical characteristics denoted by phenotype.

2. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

• A. To digest food
• B. To transport nutrients
• C. To exchange gases
• D. To regulate body temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To exchange gases. The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, between the body and the environment. This process is essential for cellular respiration, where oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is removed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Digesting food is primarily the function of the digestive system, transporting nutrients is the role of the circulatory system, and regulating body temperature is primarily managed by the integumentary system and the nervous system, not the respiratory system.

3. During vigorous exercise, why does the respiratory rate increase?

• A. Meet the increased demand for oxygen in working muscles
• B. Eliminate excess carbon dioxide more slowly
• C. Conserve energy for physical activity
• D. Decrease the amount of oxygen delivered to the body

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During vigorous exercise, the muscles require more oxygen to produce energy for physical activity. The increased respiratory rate helps to deliver more oxygen to the working muscles to meet this demand. This process is essential for sustaining physical activity and preventing fatigue. Choice A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the purpose of the increased respiratory rate during vigorous exercise. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B, 'Eliminate excess carbon dioxide more slowly,' is inaccurate as the primary reason for the increased respiratory rate during exercise is to meet the increased demand for oxygen, not to eliminate carbon dioxide. Choice C, 'Conserve energy for physical activity,' is incorrect because increasing the respiratory rate actually expends energy to meet the oxygen demand of the working muscles. Choice D, 'Decrease the amount of oxygen delivered to the body,' is incorrect as the increased respiratory rate is specifically to deliver more oxygen to the body during exercise.

4. Which of the following layers of the skin does not contain blood vessels?

• A. Hypodermis
• B. Dermis
• C. Epidermis
• D. Hyperdermis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The epidermis is the outermost layer of the skin and is avascular, meaning it does not contain blood vessels. It receives nutrients through diffusion from the underlying dermis. The hypodermis is the subcutaneous tissue beneath the dermis and contains blood vessels. The dermis is the layer of skin between the epidermis and hypodermis, which contains blood vessels, nerves, hair follicles, and sweat glands. 'Hyperdermis' is not a correct anatomical term and is not a layer of the skin, making it an incorrect choice for this question.

5. What is the primary function of the endocrine system?

• A. Heartbeat
• B. Respiration
• C. Electrolyte and water balance
• D. Homeostasis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the stable internal conditions of the body, including body temperature, blood pH, and glucose levels. The endocrine system achieves this by releasing hormones that regulate various physiological processes and help keep the body's internal environment in balance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while the endocrine system does influence heart rate, electrolyte and water balance, and respiration to some extent, its primary role is to regulate homeostasis by releasing hormones.

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