in meiosis the chromosome number is reduced from

HESI RN

Biology Practice Test

1. In meiosis, the chromosome number is reduced from:

A. 46 to 23
B. 46 to 33
C. 28 to 14
D. 24 to 12

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "46 to 23." In meiosis, the chromosome number is reduced by half to form gametes for sexual reproduction. In humans, where the diploid chromosome number is 46, meiosis results in haploid cells with 23 chromosomes. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent the correct reduction in chromosome number during meiosis.

2. DNA and RNA are both subunits of which biological molecule?

A. Nucleic acids
B. Proteins
C. Carbohydrates
D. Lipids

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Nucleic acids. DNA and RNA are both types of nucleic acids, which are fundamental biological molecules responsible for storing and transmitting genetic information. Choice B, Proteins, are not subunits of DNA and RNA but are composed of amino acids. Carbohydrates, choice C, are another type of biological molecule involved in energy storage and structural support, not subunits of DNA and RNA. Lipids, choice D, are a diverse group of molecules that include fats, oils, and steroids, but they are not subunits of DNA and RNA.

3. Which of the following options is the term used to represent alternative versions of a gene?

A. Alleles
B. Binary fission
C. Heterozygous
D. Homozygous

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Alleles. Alleles are different forms of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome. They represent variations in a gene's DNA sequence. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms, while heterozygous and homozygous refer to different combinations of alleles in an individual, not the alternative versions of a gene.

4. Which of the following best describes phenotype?

A. The hereditary potentials and limitations of an individual
B. The genetic makeup of an individual organism
C. The entire complex of genes inherited from both parents
D. All the observable characteristics of an organism

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'All the observable characteristics of an organism.' Phenotype refers to all the observable characteristics of an organism, such as physical appearance, behavior, and other traits, which result from the interaction of its genotype with the environment. Choice A is incorrect because it describes genotype. Choice B is incorrect as it defines genotype, not phenotype. Choice C is incorrect as it refers to the genotype, the genetic information inherited from both parents, rather than the observable traits.

5. What must first occur before a cell can be divided to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms?

A. RNA replication
B. DNA replication
C. Gene replication
D. Chromosome replication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: DNA replication. Before a cell can divide to grow, develop, and reproduce organisms, DNA replication must occur. This process ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical set of genetic information. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because while RNA, genes, and chromosomes are essential components of cell division, DNA replication is the specific process that must first occur to ensure accurate transmission of genetic material.