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 molecules contains the code required for replication?

A. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA)
B. Transfer RNA (tRNA)
C. Messenger RNA (mRNA)
D. Ribonucleic acid (RNA)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA). DNA contains the genetic information essential for replication, ensuring the accurate transmission of genetic material from one generation to the next. Choice B, Transfer RNA (tRNA), is involved in protein synthesis, not replication. Choice C, Messenger RNA (mRNA), carries genetic information from DNA to the ribosome but does not contain the code for replication. Choice D, Ribonucleic acid (RNA), is a broader category that includes both mRNA and tRNA, but the specific molecule containing the code required for replication is DNA.

3. Where can ribosomes be found inside a cell?

A. Attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and in the cytoplasm
B. Within the cellular membrane
C. Attached to the Golgi apparatus and in the cytoplasm
D. Within the nucleus

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Ribosomes can be found attached to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or free-floating in the cytoplasm. The correct answer is A because ribosomes are responsible for synthesizing proteins and are commonly found on the ER or in the cytoplasm. Choice B is incorrect because ribosomes are not typically located within the cellular membrane. Choice C is incorrect as ribosomes are not attached to the Golgi apparatus; instead, they are involved in protein synthesis. Choice D is incorrect as ribosomes are not found within the nucleus but rather in the cytoplasm or attached to the ER.

4. The cellular membrane contributes to all except which of the following?

A. Cell energy production
B. Cell permeability
C. Cell communication
D. Cell protection

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The cellular membrane is involved in regulating cell permeability, communication, and protection. However, it is not directly involved in energy production. Choice A is the correct answer because the cellular membrane does not produce energy; instead, it regulates the passage of molecules in and out of the cell. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the cell membrane plays key roles in controlling what enters and exits the cell, facilitating communication between cells, and providing structural support and protection to the cell.

5. The liver is an organ responsible for detoxifying the body of many harmful substances. You might expect the liver to contain a high amount of which of the following?

A. Rough endoplasmic reticulum
B. Smooth endoplasmic reticulum
C. Mitochondria
D. Lysosomes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The liver contains a high amount of smooth endoplasmic reticulum because it plays a significant role in detoxification processes, such as the synthesis of detoxifying enzymes and lipids. Choice A (Rough endoplasmic reticulum) is incorrect because the rough endoplasmic reticulum is more involved in protein synthesis and processing. Choice C (Mitochondria) is incorrect as mitochondria are primarily responsible for energy production. Choice D (Lysosomes) is incorrect because lysosomes are organelles involved in intracellular digestion and waste removal, not specifically related to detoxification.