HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology Practice Test 2024
1. What is the term for the movement of ions and other molecular substances across cell membranes without the need for energy?
- A. Active Transport
- B. Passive Transport
- C. Diffusion
- D. Osmosis
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Passive transport refers to the movement of substances across cell membranes without the need for energy input. In contrast, active transport, choice A, requires energy to move substances against their concentration gradient. Diffusion, choice C, is a type of passive transport where substances move from an area of high concentration to low concentration. Osmosis, choice D, specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane.
2. 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.
3. Which of the following are considered the most important molecules in biology?
- A. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and nucleic acids
- B. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and calcium
- C. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and sulfur
- D. Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and iron
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Carbohydrates, lipids, protein, and nucleic acids are considered the most important molecules in biology. Carbohydrates are essential for providing energy, lipids for storing energy and forming cell membranes, proteins for various structural and functional roles, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) for storing genetic information. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins are crucial biomolecules, calcium, sulfur, and iron are not considered among the most important molecules in biology.
4. The cell membrane consists of a bilayer of phospholipids with proteins, cholesterol, and glycoproteins. What does this bilayer create?
- A. Impermeable
- B. Permeable
- C. Selectively permeable
- D. Selectively impermeable
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Selectively permeable.' The cell membrane's bilayer structure allows it to be selectively permeable, meaning it can control the passage of substances. This property enables the membrane to regulate the entry and exit of specific molecules, ions, and other substances. Choice A, 'Impermeable,' is incorrect as the cell membrane is not completely impermeable and does allow certain substances to pass through. Choice B, 'Permeable,' is also incorrect as it does not address the selective nature of the membrane. Choice D, 'Selectively impermeable,' is a contradictory term and does not accurately describe the cell membrane's function.
5. What is the most important component of the cell, contributing to protection, communication, and the passage of substances?
- A. Cytoplasm
- B. Cell Membrane
- C. Cytoskeleton
- D. Vacuole
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The cell membrane is the correct answer. It is the most important component of the cell as it provides protection, facilitates communication, and regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell. The cytoplasm (Choice A) is the gel-like substance within the cell that holds organelles, but it is not primarily responsible for the functions mentioned in the question. The cytoskeleton (Choice C) provides structural support to the cell but is not directly involved in protection, communication, or substance passage. Vacuoles (Choice D) are responsible for storage and maintaining turgor pressure but do not play a primary role in the functions specified in the question.
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