what is the main purpose of biological classification

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the main purpose of biological classification?

A. To create a rigid and unchanging system for labeling organisms
B. To understand the diversity and interconnectedness of life
C. To simplify nature into neat and tidy categories
D. To assign organisms to specific ecological niches

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Biological classification, also known as taxonomy, is the science of categorizing and organizing living organisms based on shared characteristics. The main purpose of biological classification is not to create a rigid and unchanging system (option A) or to simplify nature into neat and tidy categories (option C). Instead, it aims to help us understand the diversity of life on Earth and how different organisms are related to each other. By classifying organisms into groups based on their evolutionary relationships, we can gain insights into the interconnectedness of life and better appreciate the complexity and beauty of the natural world. Assigning organisms to specific ecological niches (option D) is more related to ecological studies rather than biological classification.

2. Which part of the brain is responsible for coordinating various sensory inputs, regulating sleep, and maintaining wakefulness?

A. Cerebrum
B. Hypothalamus
C. Medulla oblongata
D. Reticular formation

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The reticular formation is a network of neurons located in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, coordinating various sensory inputs, and maintaining wakefulness. It acts as a filter for incoming sensory information and helps in directing attention to important stimuli. The other options, the cerebrum, hypothalamus, and medulla oblongata, are important structures in the brain but are not primarily responsible for the specific functions mentioned in the question. The cerebrum is mainly involved in higher brain functions such as thinking and voluntary movements. The hypothalamus is responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, among other functions. The medulla oblongata is essential for controlling vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate.

3. 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.

4. How does the developing fetus primarily eliminate metabolic wastes?

A. The developing fetus does not produce metabolic wastes.
B. Fetal waste is excreted as feces, which pass into the mother's anus.
C. Fetal waste is passed down the umbilical cord to the mother's circulatory system.
D. Fetal waste is passed down the umbilical cord and leaves the mother's body via the vagina.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Metabolic wastes produced by the developing fetus are eliminated primarily by being passed down the umbilical cord to the mother's circulatory system. Once in the mother's blood, these wastes are then filtered and excreted by the mother's kidneys. Choice A is incorrect because the developing fetus does produce metabolic wastes. Choice B is incorrect as fetal waste does not pass into the mother's anus. Choice D is incorrect as fetal waste does not leave the mother's body via the vagina.

5. What happens to the gravitational potential energy of an object as it falls freely?

A. It decreases
B. It increases
C. It remains constant
D. It becomes zero

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'It decreases.' When an object falls freely, its height decreases, resulting in a decrease in gravitational potential energy. The potential energy is converted into kinetic energy as the object accelerates due to gravity. This conversion process continues until the object reaches the ground or its lowest point, where the gravitational potential energy is minimal or zero. Choice B is incorrect because gravitational potential energy decreases, not increases, during free fall. Choice C is incorrect as gravitational potential energy changes due to the change in height. Choice D is incorrect as the gravitational potential energy does not instantly become zero but decreases gradually as the object falls.