Nursing Elites

1. What is the main component that gives bones their rigidity and hardness?

• A. Collagen
• B. Calcium phosphate
• C. Cartilage
• D. Ligaments

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Calcium phosphate is the main component that gives bones their rigidity and hardness. It combines with calcium hydroxide to form hydroxyapatite crystals, which provide strength and structure to bones. Collagen, on the other hand, provides flexibility and tensile strength. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue found in joints, and ligaments are fibrous tissues that connect bones to other bones, but they do not contribute to the rigidity and hardness of bones.

2. How many neutrons are in an atom of the following element with a mass number of 50?

• A. 38
• B. 88
• C. 50
• D. 126

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Neutrons are found in the nucleus of an atom along with protons. To determine the number of neutrons in an atom, subtract the atomic number (number of protons) from the mass number. In this case, the mass number given is 50. Since the atomic number is not specified, we can infer it from the choices provided. The mass number of an element represents the total sum of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. Therefore, the number of neutrons in this atom would also be 50, as the mass number is equivalent to the combined number of protons and neutrons, making choice C the correct answer. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not match the given mass number of 50.

3. How do isotopes affect the atomic mass of an element?

• A. Isotopes have no effect on the atomic mass of an element.
• B. Isotopes cause the atomic mass of an element to vary slightly.
• C. Isotopes cause the atomic mass of an element to be exactly the same for all isotopes of that element.
• D. Isotopes cause the atomic mass of an element to vary greatly.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. Since the atomic mass of an element is the weighted average of the masses of its isotopes, the presence of isotopes causes the atomic mass of an element to vary slightly. This variation occurs because different isotopes have different masses due to their varying numbers of neutrons. The atomic mass is affected by the abundance of each isotope, leading to a slight fluctuation in the overall atomic mass of the element. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes do influence the atomic mass. Choice C is incorrect because isotopes have different masses, affecting the overall atomic mass. Choice D is incorrect as isotopes typically do not cause a significant variation in atomic mass, but rather a slight fluctuation.

4. Which bones are included in the axial skeleton?

• A. Head, neck, and trunk
• B. Arms and legs
• C. Hands and feet
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Head, neck, and trunk. The axial skeleton comprises bones located in the head, neck, and trunk region, such as the skull, vertebral column, and rib cage. These bones provide structural support and protect vital organs like the brain, spinal cord, and heart. Choices B and C are incorrect because arms, legs, hands, and feet are part of the appendicular skeleton, not the axial skeleton. The appendicular skeleton is responsible for movement, manipulation, and mobility, while the axial skeleton primarily provides central support and protection for essential organs.

5. Which structure in the digestive system absorbs the most nutrients?

• A. Stomach
• B. Small intestine
• C. Large intestine
• D. Esophagus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site where the absorption of nutrients from digested food occurs. Its large surface area, specialized cells, and villi play key roles in maximizing nutrient absorption, making it the structure in the digestive system that absorbs the most nutrients. The stomach's main function is to break down food with acid and enzymes, not absorb nutrients. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach and does not play a role in nutrient absorption.

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