Nursing Elites

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 cell structure is responsible for efficiently packaging DNA into a small volume to fit into the nucleus of a cell and protect the DNA structure and sequence?

• A. Golgi apparatus
• B. Chromatin
• C. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
• D. Mitochondria

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Chromatin is the correct answer. Chromatin is responsible for packaging DNA into a more compact, dense structure to fit into the nucleus and protect the DNA. The Golgi apparatus is involved in processing and packaging proteins, not DNA. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum is involved in lipid metabolism and detoxification. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell responsible for energy production, not DNA packaging.

3. The bilayer of the cellular membrane consists of phospholipids with all except which of the following scattered throughout?

• A. Nucleic acids
• B. Cholesterol
• C. Proteins
• D. Glycoproteins

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cellular membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer with cholesterol, proteins, and glycoproteins distributed throughout. Nucleic acids are not found within the cellular membrane. Cholesterol helps maintain membrane fluidity, while proteins and glycoproteins play important roles in cell signaling, transport, and structural support.

4. Which of the following 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 versions of a gene that can exist at a specific locus on a chromosome. This term specifically refers to the different forms of a gene that can exist. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not represent alternative versions of a gene. Binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction in single-celled organisms, while heterozygous and homozygous refer to the genetic makeup of an individual rather than alternative versions of a gene.

5. Prophase is the first stage of mitosis. Which of the following best describes chromosomes during this stage?

• A. They are gathered on either side of the separating cell
• B. They are all aligned along the metaphase plate
• C. They are attached to the spindle
• D. They are visibly separate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. During prophase, the chromosomes condense and become visible as distinct structures under a microscope. Choice A is incorrect as chromosomes are not gathered on either side of the separating cell during prophase. Choice B is incorrect because chromosomes align along the metaphase plate during the subsequent stage, metaphase. Choice C is incorrect as chromosomes become attached to the spindle fibers during prometaphase, the stage following prophase.

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