what is the difference between alpha decay and beta decay

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the difference between alpha decay and beta decay?

A. Both release the same type of particle.
B. Alpha decay releases a helium nucleus, while beta decay releases an electron or positron.
C. Alpha decay is more common than beta decay.
D. They both convert one element into another, but in different ways.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Alpha decay involves the release of a helium nucleus, which consists of two protons and two neutrons. In contrast, beta decay releases an electron (beta-minus decay) or a positron (beta-plus decay). This significant distinction in the particles emitted during the decay processes distinguishes alpha decay from beta decay. Choice A is incorrect because alpha and beta decay release different types of particles. Choice C is incorrect as beta decay is more common than alpha decay in many cases. Choice D is incorrect as it does not specifically address the particles released during alpha and beta decay.

2. Which type of blood cell is primarily responsible for fighting infections?

A. Red blood cell
B. White blood cell
C. Platelet
D. Plasma

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: White blood cell. White blood cells are the primary cells responsible for fighting infections and foreign invaders in the body. Red blood cells carry oxygen to tissues, platelets help in blood clotting to prevent excessive bleeding, and plasma is the liquid component of blood that carries cells and nutrients. White blood cells, also known as leukocytes, play a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and destroying pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and other harmful substances. Therefore, they are the key players in the body's defense against infections, making them the correct answer in this scenario. While red blood cells, platelets, and plasma have essential functions in the body, they are not primarily responsible for combating infections like white blood cells.

3. What is the main difference between a telescope and a microscope?

A. Telescopes magnify distant objects, while microscopes magnify small objects.
B. Telescopes use lenses, while microscopes use mirrors.
C. Telescopes collect light, while microscopes emit light.
D. They both magnify objects but serve different purposes.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The main difference between a telescope and a microscope lies in their primary functions. Telescopes are specifically designed to magnify and observe distant objects like stars, planets, and galaxies, making them essential tools for astronomy. In contrast, microscopes are utilized to magnify and study small objects such as cells, bacteria, and other microscopic organisms in fields like biology and medicine. Therefore, the key distinction is that telescopes focus on magnifying distant objects, while microscopes are tailored for magnifying small objects. Choice B is incorrect because while some microscopes may use mirrors in certain designs, the primary component is typically lenses. Choice C is incorrect as telescopes collect and focus light for observation, while microscopes use light to illuminate and magnify objects. Choice D is incorrect because while both instruments magnify objects, their main purposes and the types of objects they focus on are distinctly different.

4. Which of the following is an example of the location and function of cartilage in the body?

A. The dense connective tissue that makes up the majority of the structural skeleton
B. The supportive pads that provide cushioning at joints, such as between the vertebrae of the spinal cord
C. The connective structure made of fibrous collagen that connects muscles and bones
D. The layer beneath the skin and on the outside of internal organs that provides cushioning and protection

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cartilage is a type of flexible connective tissue that acts as supportive pads providing cushioning at joints, like those found between the vertebrae of the spine. This specific function of cartilage helps in reducing friction and absorbing shock in these areas, contributing to joint flexibility and protection. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately describe the function and location of cartilage in the body. Option A incorrectly refers to dense connective tissue, which is different from cartilage. Option C describes tendons or ligaments, which are not cartilage. Option D refers to adipose tissue, which is a type of connective tissue that stores fat and provides insulation, but it is not cartilage.

5. What is the maximum volume of air that can be expelled from the lungs after maximum inhalation?

A. Tidal volume
B. Total lung capacity
C. Ventilation rate
D. Vital capacity

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Vital capacity. Vital capacity represents the maximum volume of air that can be expelled from the lungs after a maximum inhalation. Tidal volume (Choice A) is the volume of air inspired or expired during normal breathing at rest and is not the maximum capacity. Total lung capacity (Choice B) refers to the maximum volume of air the lungs can accommodate including the residual volume, not just the expelled air. Ventilation rate (Choice C) is the rate at which air is moved in and out of the lungs, not the maximum volume of air that can be expelled.