Nursing Elites

1. The fossil record shows that dinosaurs with feathers existed millions of years before birds. This is evidence for

• A. Convergent evolution (unrelated organisms evolving similar traits)
• B. Divergent evolution (related organisms evolving different traits)
• C. Coevolution (two species influencing each other's evolution)
• D. The extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The fossil record indicates that dinosaurs had feathers before birds, suggesting convergent evolution. Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated organisms independently evolve similar traits to adapt to similar environmental pressures. In this case, both dinosaurs and birds developed feathers for flight or insulation purposes, even though they are not closely related. This evidence supports the concept of convergent evolution rather than divergent evolution, coevolution, or the extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as it best explains the scenario where dinosaurs with feathers existed before birds, showcasing the concept of unrelated organisms evolving similar traits independently.

2. What is the main function of vacuoles in plant cells?

• A. To provide structural support for the cell
• B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
• C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
• D. To store water, enzymes, and waste products

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Vacuoles in plant cells primarily function as storage organelles. They store water, enzymes, pigments, and waste products, helping to maintain turgor pressure within the cell. This turgor pressure provides structural support for the plant cell. While vacuoles can also participate in transporting substances within the cell, their main role is storage. The synthesis of proteins and lipids is mainly handled by other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Choice A is incorrect because while vacuoles indirectly contribute to structural support by maintaining turgor pressure, their primary function is storage. Choice B is incorrect as vacuoles are not primarily responsible for transporting substances in and out of the cell. Choice C is incorrect as vacuoles do not synthesize proteins and lipids; this function is carried out by other organelles.

3. What property of a substance refers to its ability to be drawn into thin wires without breaking?

• A. Malleability
• B. Viscosity
• C. Ductility
• D. Conductivity

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ductility is the property that allows a substance to be drawn into thin wires without breaking. Malleability, on the other hand, is the ability to be hammered or rolled into thin sheets. Viscosity is the measure of a fluid's resistance to flow. Conductivity, lastly, refers to a substance's ability to conduct electricity or heat. Therefore, in this context, the correct answer is ductility as it specifically relates to the ability of a substance to be drawn into thin wires without breaking.

4. What property of a substance remains constant regardless of changes in gravity?

• A. Mass
• B. Weight
• C. Volume
• D. Density

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object and remains constant regardless of changes in gravity. Weight, on the other hand, is a measure of the gravitational force acting on an object and varies with changes in gravity. Volume is the amount of space occupied by an object and can change with changes in gravity. Density is the mass of a substance per unit volume and can also change with changes in gravity if the volume changes. Therefore, the correct answer is mass as it remains the same regardless of the gravitational force acting on the object, making it an intrinsic property of the substance.

5. The kidneys are bean-shaped organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood. What is the main nitrogenous waste product the kidneys eliminate?

• A. Carbon dioxide
• B. Ammonia
• C. Urea
• D. Glucose

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, urea. Urea is the main nitrogenous waste product eliminated by the kidneys. It is produced in the liver from protein metabolism and excreted in urine. Carbon dioxide is eliminated through the lungs as a waste product of cellular respiration and not by the kidneys. Ammonia, a toxic waste product, is converted to urea in the liver before being excreted by the kidneys. Glucose is a sugar that is reabsorbed by the kidneys and not excreted as waste.

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