protein synthesis begins with a process known as transcription where does this process occur

HESI RN

Biology Practice Test

1. Protein synthesis begins with a process known as transcription. Where does this process occur?

A. In the cytoplasm
B. In the nuclear envelope
C. In the ribosome unit
D. In the nucleus

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: In the nucleus. Transcription, the initial step of protein synthesis, takes place in the nucleus where DNA is transcribed into mRNA. This mRNA then leaves the nucleus and enters the cytoplasm where translation occurs on the ribosomes. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because transcription specifically occurs in the nucleus, not in the cytoplasm, nuclear envelope, or ribosome unit.

2. 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.

3. Which of the following options correctly lists the five stages of mitosis in order from beginning to end?

A. Prophase, Prometaphase, Telophase, Metaphase, Anaphase
B. Prophase, Prometaphase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase
C. Metaphase, Anaphase, Prophase, Prometaphase, Telophase
D. Metaphase, Telophase, Anaphase, Prophase, Prometaphase

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct order of the stages of mitosis is Prophase, Prometaphase, Metaphase, Anaphase, and Telophase. Choice A is incorrect because it has Anaphase and Metaphase in the wrong order. Choice C is incorrect as it starts with Metaphase, which is not the first stage of mitosis. Choice D is incorrect as it also has the stages in the wrong order, and it starts with Metaphase, which is incorrect.

4. 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.

5. 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.