HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. In the hierarchical organizational system, which of these is the most restrictive category?
- A. Genus
- B. Class
- C. Kingdom
- D. Species
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In the biological classification hierarchy, species is the most specific level, defining individual organisms that can interbreed. While genus, class, and kingdom are also categories in the hierarchy, they are broader and encompass a wider range of organisms compared to species. Genus groups together similar species, class groups similar orders, and kingdom is the broadest category grouping together similar phyla.
2. Proteins are polymers of 20 molecules called:
- A. Amino acids
- B. Phospholipids
- C. Carbohydrates
- D. Fatty acids
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Proteins are indeed polymers made up of amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, where each protein has a unique sequence of amino acids that determines its structure and function. Phospholipids, carbohydrates, and fatty acids are not molecules that make up proteins. Phospholipids are the main components of cell membranes, carbohydrates are sugars used for energy and structural purposes, and fatty acids are building blocks of lipids.
3. Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding the transcription of DNA?
- A. RNA uses reverse transcriptase to make mRNA
- B. DNA uses mRNA to produce tRNA
- C. RNA creates a duplicate copy of DNA
- D. RNA copies DNA to produce mRNA
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. During transcription, RNA copies DNA to produce mRNA, which carries the genetic information from DNA to the ribosomes for protein synthesis. Choice A is incorrect because reverse transcriptase is not involved in the transcription of DNA. Choice B is incorrect as DNA does not use mRNA to produce tRNA; tRNA is produced through a different process. Choice C is incorrect as RNA does not create a duplicate copy of DNA during transcription; it synthesizes mRNA by copying the DNA template.
4. Which of the following is not found in a prokaryotic cell?
- A. Plasma membrane
- B. Cytoplasm
- C. Nucleus
- D. Ribosomes
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Nucleus.' Prokaryotic cells do not have a defined nucleus, unlike eukaryotic cells. The plasma membrane, cytoplasm, and ribosomes are all components found in prokaryotic cells. The plasma membrane surrounds the cell and regulates what enters and exits, the cytoplasm is the gel-like substance that fills the cell, and ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis.
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.
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