HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. In the hierarchy of biology, cells combine to form which of the following?
- A. Macromolecules
- B. Molecules
- C. Tissues
- D. Organelles
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the hierarchy of biology, cells combine to form tissues. Tissues are groups of cells that work together to perform specific functions. This is a fundamental level of organization above individual cells but below organs and organ systems. Macromolecules and molecules are smaller components that make up cells, not what cells combine to form. Organelles are structures within cells that perform specific functions and do not result from the combination of cells.
2. At the beginning of meiosis, how many chromosomes does the diploid parent cell have?
- A. 23
- B. 24
- C. 46
- D. 54
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 46. At the start of meiosis, the diploid parent cell contains 46 chromosomes. During meiosis, the number of chromosomes is halved, resulting in each gamete having 23 chromosomes. Choice A (23) is incorrect because that is the number of chromosomes in a human gamete, not the parent cell. Choice B (24) and Choice D (54) are also incorrect as they do not reflect the correct number of chromosomes in a diploid parent cell at the beginning of meiosis.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. What is the composition of the cellular membrane?
- A. A bilayer of phospholipid molecules
- B. A single layer of phospholipid molecules
- C. Proteins that act as transport highways
- D. Carbohydrates
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The cellular membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which consists of two layers of phospholipid molecules. These molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, creating a barrier that separates the internal cellular environment from the external surroundings. While proteins are embedded within this bilayer and act as transport channels, receptors, and structural support, carbohydrates are found on the outer surface of the membrane for cell recognition and signaling purposes. Therefore, the correct answer is a bilayer of phospholipid molecules.
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