what effect does a catalyst have on a chemical reaction

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Test

1. What effect does a catalyst have on a chemical reaction?

A. It speeds up the reaction.
B. It slows down the reaction.
C. It makes a reaction go in reverse.
D. It prevents a reaction from taking place.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A catalyst is a substance that increases the rate of a chemical reaction without being consumed in the process. It works by providing an alternate pathway for the reaction to occur, lowering the activation energy needed for the reaction to proceed. As a result, more reactant molecules can overcome this energy barrier and participate in the reaction, leading to a faster overall reaction rate. This explanation contradicts choices B, C, and D as a catalyst does not slow down, reverse, or prevent a reaction; instead, it accelerates the reaction by facilitating a more efficient route for the reaction to take place. Therefore, the correct answer is that a catalyst speeds up the reaction.

2. 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

3. The tonsils and adenoids, located in the throat, are part of the:

A. Lymphatic system
B. Endocrine system
C. Respiratory system
D. Digestive system

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The tonsils and adenoids are part of the lymphatic system, not the respiratory, endocrine, or digestive systems. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in the body's defense against infections and diseases by producing white blood cells and lymphatic fluid, which help in filtering harmful substances. The respiratory system is primarily responsible for breathing and gas exchange in the body, the endocrine system regulates hormones, and the digestive system is involved in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from food. Therefore, the correct answer is the lymphatic system.

4. Which structure protects the lungs?

A. Femur
B. Ribcage
C. Scapula
D. Skull

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The ribcage is the correct answer. It protects the lungs by providing structural support and shielding them from injury. The femur is a bone in the thigh and does not protect the lungs. The scapula is a shoulder blade bone, and the skull protects the brain, not the lungs.

5. Which of the following is a risk factor for developing kidney stones?

A. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables
B. Maintaining adequate hydration with water
C. Having a family history of kidney stones
D. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Having a family history of kidney stones is a risk factor for developing kidney stones. Genetic predisposition can increase the likelihood of developing kidney stones due to inherited traits that affect the body's ability to process and excrete certain substances. Consuming a diet rich in fruits and vegetables (option A) and maintaining adequate hydration with water (option B) are actually recommended strategies to help prevent kidney stones by promoting overall kidney health. Regularly engaging in moderate exercise (option D) can also be beneficial for kidney health by promoting circulation and overall well-being. Therefore, options A, B, and D are not risk factors but rather beneficial for kidney health.