what happens during the s phase of the cell cycle

HESI A2

HESI A2 Practice Test Biology

1. What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?

A. Chromosomes are duplicated.
B. Cell growth occurs.
C. DNA is synthesized.
D. DNA is destroyed.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During the S phase of the cell cycle, chromosomes are duplicated. This is a critical step in cell division as each chromosome is replicated to ensure that the resulting daughter cells receive an identical set of genetic information. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because cell growth primarily occurs in the G1 phase, DNA synthesis happens during the S phase, and DNA destruction does not occur during any phase of the cell cycle.

2. A cell containing 12 chromosomes divides into daughter cells in mitosis. How many chromosomes are in each daughter cell?

A. 3
B. 6
C. 12
D. 24

Correct answer: C

Rationale: During mitosis, the cell undergoes nuclear division without changing the number of chromosomes. Therefore, the daughter cells produced will have the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell. In this case, since the parent cell contains 12 chromosomes, each daughter cell will also have 12 chromosomes. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because during mitosis, the chromosome number remains the same, and daughter cells inherit the same number of chromosomes as the parent cell.

3. Which organism reproduces via binary fission?

A. Mushroom
B. Blue whale
C. Rainbow trout
D. Salmonella

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Salmonella. Salmonella bacterium reproduces via binary fission, a form of asexual reproduction where the cell divides into two daughter cells with identical genetic material. This process is common among bacteria and single-celled organisms. Mushrooms reproduce through spores, blue whales and rainbow trout reproduce sexually, involving the fusion of male and female gametes. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not reproduce through binary fission.

4. Select the cell parts that are present in plant cells but not animal cells (there may be more than one answer):

A. Cell membrane
B. Cell wall
C. Ribosome
D. Chloroplast

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Plant cells have a cell wall (B) which provides structural support and protection for the cell, a feature that is not present in animal cells. The cell membrane (A) is found in both plant and animal cells. Ribosomes (C) are present in both types of cells and are responsible for protein synthesis. Chloroplasts (D) are unique to plant cells and are responsible for carrying out photosynthesis. Therefore, the correct answers are B and D because the cell wall and chloroplast are specific to plant cells, while the cell membrane and ribosomes are found in both plant and animal cells.

5. Why is homeostasis necessary?

A. It maintains temperature
B. It maintains pH
C. It maintains glucose levels
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Homeostasis is necessary because it ensures the maintenance of a stable, relatively constant internal environment. This includes regulating various factors such as temperature, pH levels, and glucose levels to support optimal bodily functions and overall health. Choices A, B, and C are all correct as they represent key aspects of homeostasis that contribute to maintaining the body's internal balance.