protein synthesis begins with a process known as transcription what is produced during this process

HESI RN

Biology Test

1. Protein synthesis begins with a process known as transcription. What is produced during this process?

A. A codon
B. A DNA helix
C. A DNA strand
D. An RNA strand

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: An RNA strand. During transcription, the DNA template is used to produce an RNA strand, not a codon, DNA helix, or another DNA strand. A codon is a sequence of nucleotides that specifies a particular amino acid during translation, not produced during transcription. A DNA helix refers to the double-stranded structure of DNA, which is not produced during transcription. Another DNA strand is not produced during transcription since the process involves creating an RNA copy of a specific gene.

2. What is the primary method of asexual reproduction used by most bacteria?

A. Meiosis
B. Mitosis
C. Binary fission
D. Interphase

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Binary fission. This is the main process through which most bacteria reproduce asexually. During binary fission, a single cell divides into two identical cells, each containing a copy of the genetic material. Choices A and B, meiosis and mitosis, are processes involved in sexual reproduction and are not used by bacteria for asexual reproduction. Choice D, interphase, is a stage of the cell cycle where the cell prepares for division and is not a method of reproduction.

3. Which of the following do prokaryotic cells lack?

A. A cell membrane
B. Genetic material
C. Cytoplasm
D. Membrane-bound organelles

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles, such as mitochondria or a nucleus, distinguishing them from eukaryotic cells. Prokaryotic cells do have genetic material, a cell membrane, and cytoplasm. Choice A is incorrect because prokaryotic cells do have a cell membrane, which is essential for maintaining cell structure and regulating what enters and exits the cell. Choice B is incorrect because prokaryotic cells contain genetic material, typically in the form of a single circular chromosome. Choice C is incorrect because prokaryotic cells have cytoplasm, where various cellular activities take place.

4. Which of the following is a lipid that is a membrane component and a precursor to significant hormones?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Steroids. Steroids are a type of lipid that function as essential components of cell membranes and serve as precursors for significant hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Nucleic acids (choice A) are not lipids but are molecules like DNA and RNA that store genetic information. Proteins (choice B) and carbohydrates (choice C) are biomolecules but are not lipids and do not serve as precursors for hormones or membrane components.

5. 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.