Nursing Elites

1. The neutral theory of molecular evolution proposes that:

• A. Most mutations in DNA are selectively neutral and do not affect an organism's fitness.
• B. All mutations are beneficial and contribute to the adaptation of a population.
• C. The rate of evolution is primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures.
• D. Genetic drift plays a negligible role in shaping genetic variation within populations.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) The neutral theory of molecular evolution, proposed by Motoo Kimura in the 1960s, suggests that the majority of mutations that occur in DNA are selectively neutral, meaning they do not have a significant impact on an organism's fitness. These neutral mutations are not subject to natural selection and are allowed to accumulate in populations over time. This theory helps explain the high levels of genetic variation observed within populations. B) Option B is incorrect because not all mutations are beneficial. Mutations can be neutral, harmful, or beneficial, and the neutral theory specifically focuses on the idea that many mutations are neutral in their effects. C) Option C is incorrect because the neutral theory suggests that evolution is not primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures. Instead, it emphasizes the role of genetic drift and the accumulation of neutral mutations in shaping genetic variation. D) Option D is incorrect because

2. Which of the following properties is NOT characteristic of a covalent bond?

• A. Sharing of electrons between atoms
• B. High melting and boiling points
• C. Low electrical conductivity in solid state
• D. Directional bonding

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Covalent bonds are formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms, leading to the formation of molecules with directional bonding. This means that the atoms are held together in a specific orientation. Covalent compounds generally exhibit low melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds due to the weaker intermolecular forces present in covalent compounds. Furthermore, covalent compounds do not conduct electricity in the solid state because the electrons are localized between the atoms and are not free to move and carry charge. Hence, high melting and boiling points are not characteristic of covalent bonds. The correct answer is 'B' because high melting and boiling points are typically associated with ionic compounds due to their strong electrostatic interactions, while covalent compounds have lower melting and boiling points. Choices A, C, and D are all characteristics of covalent bonds, making them incorrect answers for this question.

3. What is the outermost layer of the dermis, rich in collagen and elastin fibers that provide elasticity to the skin?

• A. Papillary layer
• B. Reticular layer
• C. Stratum basale
• D. Stratum corneum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the reticular layer. This layer is the outermost layer of the dermis that contains abundant collagen and elastin fibers, providing elasticity to the skin. The papillary layer is located beneath the epidermis and is responsible for supplying nutrients to the epidermis, not the outermost layer. The stratum basale is the deepest layer of the epidermis where new skin cells are produced, not part of the dermis. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis composed of dead skin cells, not a layer of the dermis.

4. During REM sleep, which type of brain wave activity is often seen and associated with dreaming?

• A. Delta waves
• B. Alpha waves
• C. Beta waves
• D. Theta waves

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Theta waves are the correct answer as they are often seen during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, the stage of sleep closely related to dreaming. Theta waves have a frequency of 4-7 Hz and are typically present during deep relaxation, meditation, and light sleep stages. Delta waves (choice A) are associated with deep sleep stages, not REM sleep. Alpha waves (choice B) are present during wakefulness and relaxation but not predominantly during REM sleep. Beta waves (choice C) are associated with alertness, problem-solving, and active thinking, not specifically with REM sleep or dreaming.

5. How does an increase in surface area affect the force of friction between two surfaces?

• A. Increases friction
• B. Decreases friction
• C. Has no effect on friction
• D. Causes unpredictable changes in friction

Correct answer: A

Rationale: An increase in surface area typically increases the force of friction between two surfaces. This is because with a larger surface area in contact, there are more points of contact between the surfaces, leading to a greater frictional force resisting motion. As a result, the correct answer is that an increase in surface area increases the force of friction between two surfaces. Choice B is incorrect because a greater surface area increases the frictional force. Choice C is incorrect because an increase in surface area results in more contact points and greater friction. Choice D is incorrect as the relationship between surface area and friction is predictable - an increase in surface area generally leads to an increase in frictional force.

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