what functions do genes serve in the relationship between parents and offspring

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

1. What function do genes serve in the relationship between parents and offspring?

A. Genes enable hereditary information to be passed from parents to offspring.
B. Genes prohibit hereditary information from being passed from parents to offspring.
C. Genes enable environmental factors to affect parents and offspring.
D. Genes serve no function in the relationship between parents and offspring.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Genes play a crucial role in passing hereditary information from parents to offspring, ensuring the transmission of genetic traits. This process forms the basis of inheritance and genetic continuity between generations. Choice B is incorrect as genes do not prohibit but rather facilitate the transmission of hereditary information. Choice C is incorrect because genes primarily transmit genetic information, while the influence of environmental factors is separate. Choice D is incorrect as genes are fundamental in genetic inheritance and the relationship between parents and offspring.

2. Electroencephalography (EEG) measures electrical activity in the brain, primarily reflecting the activity of:

A. Neurons
B. Astrocytes
C. Oligodendrocytes
D. Microglia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: EEG measures electrical activity in the brain, primarily reflecting the activity of neurons. Neurons are the primary cells responsible for generating electrical impulses and transmitting information in the brain. Astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and microglia are other types of cells in the brain that have different functions and are not primarily involved in generating the electrical activity measured by EEG. Astrocytes support neuronal function, oligodendrocytes produce myelin to insulate axons, and microglia are involved in immune responses and maintaining brain health, but they do not generate the electrical impulses detected by EEG.

3. Which gas is the most abundant in Earth's atmosphere?

A. Nitrogen
B. Oxygen
C. Carbon dioxide
D. Argon

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nitrogen is the most abundant gas in Earth's atmosphere, constituting approximately 78% of the air we breathe. It is essential for various biological processes, including plant growth and nitrogen fixation. Moreover, nitrogen is a key component of the greenhouse effect, playing a crucial role in regulating the planet's temperature. Oxygen, while important for respiration, comprises about 21% of the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide, though vital for photosynthesis and a greenhouse gas, is present in much lower concentrations than nitrogen. Argon, an inert gas, is a minor component of the atmosphere.

4. Which of the following distinguishes the isotopes of an element?

A. Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different ionic charges.
B. Isotopes are atoms of elements within the same group on the periodic table.
C. Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have different numbers of neutrons.
D. Isotopes are atoms of the same element with different electron configurations.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Isotopes are defined as atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons in their nucleus but different numbers of neutrons. This leads to variations in atomic mass for isotopes of an element. The different number of neutrons in isotopes results in differences in their atomic mass and properties while still belonging to the same element. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes do not have different ionic charges, they have the same chemical properties. Choice B is incorrect because isotopes are not atoms of elements within the same group on the periodic table; they are variants of the same element. Choice D is incorrect because isotopes of an element have the same electron configuration, differing only in the number of neutrons in the nucleus.

5. What is the protective fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord called?

A. Blood
B. Cerebrospinal fluid
C. Plasma
D. Myelin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cerebrospinal fluid is the protective fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a cushion to protect these vital organs from injury and provides nutrients to the nervous system. Blood, plasma, and myelin are not the fluids specifically surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Blood is found within blood vessels, plasma is the liquid component of blood, and myelin is a fatty substance that forms a protective sheath around nerve fibers.