HESI RN
Biology Practice Test
1. What is the composition of the cellular membrane?
- A. A bilayer of phospholipid molecules
- B. A single layer of phospholipid molecules
- C. Proteins that act as transport highways
- D. Carbohydrates
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The cellular membrane is primarily composed of a phospholipid bilayer, which consists of two layers of phospholipid molecules. These molecules have a hydrophilic (water-attracting) head and hydrophobic (water-repelling) tail, creating a barrier that separates the internal cellular environment from the external surroundings. While proteins are embedded within this bilayer and act as transport channels, receptors, and structural support, carbohydrates are found on the outer surface of the membrane for cell recognition and signaling purposes. Therefore, the correct answer is a bilayer of phospholipid molecules.
2. In which step of cellular respiration is the most adenosine triphosphate (ATP) created?
- A. Electron transport chain
- B. Glycolysis
- C. Citric acid cycle (the Krebs cycle)
- D. All of these produce equal amounts of ATP
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The electron transport chain is the step in cellular respiration that generates the most ATP. During this step, up to 34 ATP molecules can be produced from a single glucose molecule. Choice B, Glycolysis, produces a smaller amount of ATP (2 ATP molecules per glucose), and choice C, Citric acid cycle, produces some ATP but not as much as the electron transport chain. Choice D is incorrect because different steps of cellular respiration produce varying amounts of ATP, with the electron transport chain being the most efficient in ATP generation.
3. 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.
4. What is the science of biological classification commonly called?
- A. Taxonomy
- B. Physiology
- C. Botany
- D. Zoology
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Taxonomy is the science of naming, defining, and classifying groups of biological organisms based on shared characteristics. Physiology (choice B) is the study of the functions and processes of living organisms, not classification. Botany (choice C) is the study of plants, while Zoology (choice D) is the study of animals. Therefore, the correct answer is Taxonomy (choice A).
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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