Nursing Elites

1. The process by which a single-celled organism divides into two identical daughter cells is called

• A. Conjugation
• B. Binary fission
• C. Endocytosis
• D. Mitosis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Conjugation is a process in which genetic material is transferred between two bacterial cells through a conjugation tube. It does not involve the division of a single-celled organism into two identical daughter cells. B) Binary fission is the process by which a single-celled organism, such as a bacterium, divides into two identical daughter cells. This is a common method of reproduction in prokaryotic organisms. C) Endocytosis is a cellular process in which cells engulf external materials by wrapping them in a vesicle. It is not a method of cell division. D) Mitosis is a type of cell division that occurs in eukaryotic cells, leading to the production of two daughter cells with identical genetic material. However, the question specifically refers to a single-celled organism, which typically undergoes binary fission for reproduction.

2. What is the primary source of energy entering most ecosystems?

• A. Chemical energy stored in bonds
• B. Thermal energy from the Earth's core
• C. Light energy from the sun
• D. Kinetic energy from wind and water

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In most ecosystems, the primary source of energy is sunlight. This energy is captured by plants and other photosynthetic organisms through the process of photosynthesis. These organisms convert light energy into chemical energy stored in the bonds of organic molecules, such as glucose. This stored chemical energy is then passed on to other organisms in the ecosystem through the food chain, making sunlight the fundamental source of energy for most ecosystems. Thermal energy from the Earth's core (option B) is not a primary source of energy for ecosystems, as it is not readily accessible to most organisms. Kinetic energy from wind and water (option D) can play a role in some ecosystems, but it is not the primary source of energy. Chemical energy stored in bonds (option A) is a form of energy that is ultimately derived from the sun through photosynthesis, making it a product of the primary energy source rather than the primary source itself.

3. A rocket blasts off from Earth. What is the main force propelling the rocket upwards?

• A. Gravitational force
• B. Air resistance
• C. Thrust from the rocket engine
• D. Normal force from the launchpad

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main force propelling the rocket upwards is the thrust from the rocket engine. Thrust is the force produced by the rocket engine pushing exhaust gases in the opposite direction, following Newton's third law of motion (action and reaction). This thrust overcomes the force of gravity and allows the rocket to lift off and move upwards. Choice A, gravitational force, is incorrect as gravity pulls objects towards the Earth, and in this case, the rocket is moving against gravity. Choice B, air resistance, is incorrect because it opposes the motion of the rocket and is more relevant during descent rather than ascent. Choice D, normal force from the launchpad, is incorrect as this force acts perpendicular to the surface and does not propel the rocket upwards.

4. Decomposers in an ecosystem play a vital role by:

• A. Photosynthesizing and producing organic matter
• B. Breaking down dead organisms and returning nutrients to the environment
• C. Preying on herbivores and controlling their populations
• D. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere and making it available to plants

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances. By doing so, they help to recycle nutrients back into the environment, making them available for other organisms to use. This process is essential for the functioning of ecosystems, as it ensures that nutrients are not lost but instead are continuously cycled through the ecosystem. Photosynthesis (option A) is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, and it is not a role of decomposers. Preying on herbivores (option C) is a role typically carried out by predators, not decomposers. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere (option D) is a process carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria, not decomposers.

5. What is the role of the pancreas in digestion?

• A. To secrete bile
• B. To secrete digestive enzymes
• C. To absorb nutrients
• D. To transport waste

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To secrete digestive enzymes.' The pancreas plays a crucial role in digestion by secreting digestive enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This process aids in the breakdown of food into nutrients that can be absorbed by the small intestine. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the pancreas is not responsible for secreting bile (liver and gallbladder function), absorbing nutrients (small intestine function), or transporting waste (colon function) in the digestive system.

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