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 the hierarchy of biology, cells combine to form which of the following?
- A. Macromolecules
- B. Molecules
- C. Tissues
- D. Organelles
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In the hierarchy of biology, cells combine to form tissues. Tissues are groups of cells that work together to perform specific functions. This is a fundamental level of organization above individual cells but below organs and organ systems. Macromolecules and molecules are smaller components that make up cells, not what cells combine to form. Organelles are structures within cells that perform specific functions and do not result from the combination of cells.
3. Which organelle has the ability to hydrolyze fats, nucleic acids, proteins, and sugars?
- A. Chloroplasts
- B. Mitochondria
- C. Lysosomes
- D. Ribosomes
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, Lysosomes. Lysosomes contain hydrolytic enzymes that are capable of breaking down various biomolecules such as fats, nucleic acids, proteins, and sugars. This organelle acts as the 'digestive system' of the cell. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because chloroplasts are involved in photosynthesis, mitochondria are responsible for energy production, and ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis, not the hydrolysis of biomolecules.
4. 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.
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.
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