what does monophyletic mean in the context of classification

ATI TEAS 7

Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

1. What does 'monophyletic' mean in the context of classification?

A. A group with a single representative organism
B. A group with diverse and unrelated members
C. A group with similar functions but different origins
D. A group descended from a common ancestor

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In the context of classification, 'monophyletic' refers to a group that includes a common ancestor and all of its descendants. This group shares a single evolutionary origin and forms a complete branch on a phylogenetic tree. Monophyletic groups are considered natural and valid taxonomic units because they reflect evolutionary relationships accurately. Option D is the correct choice as it accurately defines the term 'monophyletic' in the context of classification. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because 'monophyletic' does not refer to a group with a single representative organism but rather a group descended from a common ancestor. Choice B is incorrect as a monophyletic group consists of related, not diverse and unrelated, members. Choice C is incorrect as a monophyletic group includes descendants from a common ancestor, not just organisms with similar functions but different origins.

2. Which plane divides the body into superior (top) and inferior (bottom) halves?

A. Sagittal/Median Plane
B. Frontal/Coronal Plane
C. Transverse/Cross-Section Plane
D. Horizontal Plane

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The Transverse or Cross-Section Plane is the correct answer as it divides the body into superior (top) and inferior (bottom) halves. This plane runs horizontally across the body, perpendicular to the long axis, separating the body into upper and lower sections. Choice A, the Sagittal/Median Plane, divides the body into left and right halves, not superior and inferior halves. Choice B, the Frontal/Coronal Plane, divides the body into anterior (front) and posterior (back) halves. Choice D, the Horizontal Plane, is not a standard anatomical plane used to divide the body into specific sections.

3. Which of the following terms means close to the trunk of the body?

A. Superficial
B. Sagittal
C. Proximal
D. Distal

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'proximal' means situated close to the point of attachment or the center of the body, such as close to the trunk. In anatomical terms, proximal is used to describe locations that are closer to the body's center or point of reference. 'Superficial' refers to something situated near the surface, 'sagittal' refers to a plane that divides the body into left and right portions, and 'distal' refers to a position away from the center or point of reference. Therefore, 'proximal' is the correct term to indicate a position close to the trunk of the body.

4. What is the stage of mitosis during which the nuclear envelope reforms?

A. Prophase
B. Metaphase
C. Telophase
D. Cytokinesis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During telophase, the nuclear envelope reforms around the separated sister chromatids at opposite poles of the cell. This stage marks the reversal of the processes that occurred during prophase, where the nuclear envelope breaks down. Metaphase is characterized by the alignment of chromosomes along the metaphase plate in the cell's center. Cytokinesis is the final step of cell division involving cytoplasmic division to form two daughter cells, but it does not involve the reformation of the nuclear envelope. Therefore, choice C (Telophase) is the correct answer as it specifically involves the reformation of the nuclear envelope, distinguishing it from the other stages of mitosis.

5. Which type of joint allows for the greatest range of motion?

A. Hinge joint
B. Ball-and-socket joint
C. Pivot joint
D. Saddle joint

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ball-and-socket joint. The ball-and-socket joint, like the shoulder joint, allows for the greatest range of motion due to its structure, enabling movement in multiple directions. In contrast, hinge joints, pivot joints, and saddle joints have more restricted ranges of motion compared to ball-and-socket joints. Hinge joints primarily allow movement in one plane, pivot joints allow rotation around a central axis, and saddle joints have limited movement compared to ball-and-socket joints.