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 muscle is characterized by voluntary control and is responsible for body movement?

A. Cardiac muscle
B. Smooth muscle
C. Skeletal muscle
D. Connective tissue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is skeletal muscle. Skeletal muscle is characterized by voluntary control, meaning it is under conscious control. It is responsible for body movement, such as walking, running, and lifting objects. Cardiac muscle is involuntary and found in the heart, while smooth muscle is also involuntary and found in organs like the intestines. Connective tissue is not a type of muscle but rather a type of tissue that provides support and structure in the body.

3. What is the primary purpose of control rods within a nuclear reactor?

A. Reflecting neutrons back into the core
B. Absorbing excess neutrons to control criticality
C. Moderating the velocity of neutrons
D. All of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor is to absorb excess neutrons to control criticality. When inserted into the reactor core, control rods absorb neutrons, reducing the number available for sustaining the fission chain reaction. This action allows operators to manage the reactor power levels and prevent overheating or runaway reactions. Reflecting neutrons back into the core and moderating neutron velocity are not the primary functions of control rods in a nuclear reactor. Choice A is incorrect because control rods do not reflect neutrons back into the core but absorb them. Choice C is incorrect as the moderation of neutron velocity is typically achieved by other materials like a moderator (e.g., water, graphite) rather than control rods. Choice D is incorrect as control rods do not reflect neutrons or moderate neutron velocity, making it an incorrect option.

4. Which of the following biological macromolecules is non-soluble, composed of hydrocarbons, and acts as an important source of energy storage for the body?

A. carbohydrates
B. nucleic acids
C. lipids
D. proteins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lipids are non-soluble biological macromolecules composed mostly of hydrocarbons such as fatty acids. They act as an essential source of energy storage for the body, providing efficient storage of energy in the form of fats. Carbohydrates are also an energy source for the body, but lipids excel in long-term energy storage. Nucleic acids are not known for energy storage; instead, they are involved in genetic information transmission and protein synthesis. Proteins play diverse roles in the body, such as enzymatic functions, structural support, and immune response, but they are not primarily known as a source of energy storage.

5. From which type of tissue is the myelin sheath derived, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers?

A. Epithelial tissue
B. Muscle tissue
C. Nervous tissue (glial cells)
D. Connective tissue

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The myelin sheath, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers, is derived from nervous tissue, specifically glial cells. Glial cells, including oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system, are responsible for producing the myelin sheath that surrounds and insulates nerve fibers, aiding in the conduction of nerve impulses. Epithelial tissue (Choice A), Muscle tissue (Choice B), and Connective tissue (Choice D) are not responsible for producing the myelin sheath; instead, nervous tissue (glial cells) plays this crucial role.