what is the electron configuration of an atom

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. What does the term 'electron configuration' refer to in relation to an atom?

A. The arrangement of electrons in an atom's orbitals.
B. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus.
C. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus.
D. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The electron configuration of an atom refers to the arrangement of electrons in the atom's orbitals. This arrangement determines the atom's chemical properties and behavior. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus (option B) is known as the atomic number, which defines the element. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus (option C) contributes to the atom's mass number. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell (option D) is important for understanding the atom's reactivity and bonding behavior, but the electron configuration specifically refers to how electrons are distributed among the different orbitals in an atom.

2. What are the components of the female external genitalia and their functions?

A. Ovaries: internal reproductive organs
B. Vulva: external structures of the female genitalia
C. Uterus: internal reproductive organ for fetal development
D. Vagina: birth canal

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The corrected answer is B: 'Vulva: external structures of the female genitalia.' The vulva includes external structures such as the labia, clitoris, and vaginal opening. These structures play roles in sexual arousal and protection of the internal genital organs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they are internal reproductive organs. The ovaries produce eggs, the uterus houses the developing fetus, and the vagina serves as the birth canal. Hence, they are not components of the female external genitalia.

3. Mrs. Jones's class is conducting an experiment. They will substitute artificial sweetener for sugar in a cookie recipe to determine the effect on the overall color of the baked cookies. Which of the following should be included in the instructions for the experiment?

A. When preparing the batch that includes artificial sweetener, 20% more water should be included.
B. The bake temperature should be decreased from 425°F to 400°F.
C. The batch with artificial sweetener should be baked on a stainless steel sheet.
D. Ingredient proportions, bake time, bake temperature, and cookie sheet material should all be kept the same between the two batches.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: To ensure a valid comparison and isolate the impact of the artificial sweetener, the experiment should maintain consistency in all factors except the sugar substitution. By keeping ingredient proportions, bake time, bake temperature, and cookie sheet material the same, any observed differences in the color of the cookies can be attributed to the artificial sweetener rather than other variables. Choices A, B, and C introduce additional variables that could confound the results. Choice A would alter the consistency of the recipe by adjusting the water content, Choice B would introduce a change in baking temperature which could affect the outcome, and Choice C suggests a change in the type of baking sheet used, potentially impacting the baking process and results. Therefore, maintaining consistency in all other factors except for the sugar substitution is crucial for a reliable experiment.

4. What are the microscopic units responsible for muscle contraction called?

A. Neurons
B. Myofibrils
C. Tendons
D. Sarcomeres

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sarcomeres are the fundamental contractile units of skeletal muscles and are responsible for muscle contraction. They consist of actin and myosin filaments that slide past each other during muscle contraction. Neurons are responsible for transmitting signals to and from muscles but are not directly involved in muscle contraction. Myofibrils are composed of sarcomeres and are the structures within muscle cells where muscle contractions take place. Tendons are connective tissues that attach muscles to bones and are not directly involved in muscle contraction.

5. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

A. to create sound and speech
B. to take oxygen into the body while removing carbon dioxide
C. to transport nutrients to the cells and tissue of the body
D. to act as a barrier between the body’s organs and outside influences

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to take oxygen into the body through inhalation and remove carbon dioxide through exhalation. Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration and energy production, while carbon dioxide is a waste product that needs to be expelled from the body. This process is vital for the functioning of the body's cells and tissues. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because sound and speech production, nutrient transport, and acting as a barrier against outside influences are not the primary functions of the respiratory system. While the respiratory system is involved in speech production to some extent, its primary role is in gas exchange for respiration.