Nursing Elites

1. What is the name for the smallest amount of an element that can exist independently and retain its chemical properties?

• A. Atom
• B. Molecule
• C. Compound
• D. Mixture

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Atom.' An atom is the fundamental unit of an element that can exist independently and retain its unique chemical properties. It consists of a nucleus containing protons and neutrons, surrounded by electrons. Choice B, 'Molecule,' is incorrect because a molecule is a combination of two or more atoms bonded together. Choice C, 'Compound,' is incorrect as a compound is a substance formed by the chemical combination of two or more different elements. Choice D, 'Mixture,' is incorrect since a mixture is a blend of two or more substances physically combined, but the individual components retain their properties.

2. In which regions of the digestive system is amylase produced?

• A. pancreas and salivary glands
• B. gall bladder and salivary glands
• C. gall bladder and liver
• D. pancreas and liver

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Amylase is an enzyme that breaks down carbohydrates into smaller sugars. It is produced in the pancreas and salivary glands. The salivary glands release amylase into the mouth during chewing, where it initiates the breakdown of carbohydrates. The pancreas also secretes amylase into the small intestine to further assist in carbohydrate digestion. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as the gall bladder does not produce amylase, and the liver's primary function is not the production of amylase for carbohydrate breakdown.

3. Which property of a substance describes how much matter is packed into a given space?

• A. Mass
• B. Volume
• C. Weight
• D. Density

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Density is the property of a substance that describes how much matter is packed into a given space. It is calculated by dividing the mass of the substance by its volume. Mass refers to the amount of matter in an object, volume is the amount of space an object occupies, and weight is the force of gravity acting on an object's mass. Density specifically relates to how tightly packed the particles of a substance are. In this context, density is the most appropriate answer as it directly addresses how matter is packed into a given space. Mass and weight are related to the quantity of matter and the force of gravity, respectively, but do not directly describe the compactness of matter in a given space. Volume, on the other hand, refers to the space occupied by an object, not the amount of matter packed into that space.

4. What is the product of translation from an RNA template?

• A. DNA
• B. Lipid
• C. Polypeptide
• D. Carbohydrate

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Translation is the process by which the genetic information carried by mRNA is decoded to synthesize a polypeptide chain. This essential process occurs at the ribosomes within the cell. The product of translation from an RNA template is a polypeptide, not DNA, lipid, or carbohydrate. DNA is involved in transcription, lipids are not directly produced in translation, and carbohydrates are not synthesized through translation. Therefore, the correct product resulting from translation from an RNA template is a polypeptide, making choice C, 'Polypeptide,' the correct answer.

5. What is the main function of the epiglottis, a small flap of cartilage located above the larynx?

• A. To warm and humidify inhaled air
• B. To control the passage of food and air
• C. To produce sound vibrations for speech
• D. To sense the presence of foreign objects

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the epiglottis is to control the passage of food and air. It acts as a cover for the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. This mechanism ensures that food safely travels down the esophagus to the stomach, while air simultaneously enters the trachea and moves into the lungs for respiration. Choice A is incorrect as the warming and humidifying of inhaled air primarily occur in the nasal cavity. Choice C is incorrect because sound production for speech involves structures like the vocal cords rather than the epiglottis. Choice D is incorrect as sensing foreign objects is not a primary function of the epiglottis; instead, this role is typically associated with sensory receptors in the respiratory tract.

Similar Questions