what is the primary function of dna polymerase

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 science review

1. What is the primary function of DNA polymerase?

A. Packaging DNA
B. Replicating DNA
C. Transcribing DNA
D. Translating mRNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Replicating DNA. DNA polymerase is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during DNA replication. It adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand based on the template provided by the existing DNA strand. This process ensures that genetic information is accurately copied and passed on to daughter cells during cell division. Option A, Packaging DNA, refers to the coiling and organization of DNA into chromatin, a process involving histones and other proteins. Option C, Transcribing DNA, involves the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template, a process carried out by RNA polymerase. Option D, Translating mRNA, refers to the process of protein synthesis where the information encoded in mRNA is used to assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

2. Which of the following statements is FALSE?

A. An organelle is a specialized structure in a cell, such as a ribosome.
B. An organ is made up of different types of tissues that work together to perform specific functions.
C. Organ systems are two or more organs performing similar functions.
D. A tissue contains a variety of cells that work together to perform a specific function.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The statement provided in Option B is FALSE. Organs are actually made up of different types of tissues that work together to perform specific functions, rather than being composed of similar tissues. Organs consist of various tissues, each with their own specialized functions that collectively contribute to the overall function of the organ. Options A, C, and D are true statements. Option A correctly defines an organelle as a specialized structure in a cell, like a ribosome. Option C accurately describes organ systems as multiple organs working together to perform related functions. Option D correctly explains that a tissue is composed of different cells working together to carry out a specific function.

3. Which statement about white blood cells is true?

A. B cells are responsible for antibody production.
B. White blood cells are produced in the bone marrow before entering the bloodstream.
C. Platelets, a specialized class of blood cells, function to clot blood and stop bleeding.
D. The majority of white blood cells are active throughout life, providing immunity across all age groups.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: B cells, a type of white blood cell, are responsible for producing antibodies in response to pathogens. Antibodies play a crucial role in identifying and neutralizing foreign substances like bacteria and viruses in the body, aiding in the immune response and protecting against infections. This function is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. White blood cells, including B cells, are produced in the bone marrow before entering the bloodstream. Platelets, not white blood cells, are a specialized class of blood cells that function to clot blood and stop bleeding. While white blood cells provide immunity, not all of them are active throughout life as some have specific lifespans and functions.

4. What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?

A. Breaking down and recycling cellular waste
B. Packaging and transporting proteins and lipids
C. Generating energy through cellular respiration
D. Translating DNA into proteins

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in the cell by packaging and modifying proteins and lipids synthesized by the endoplasmic reticulum. These proteins and lipids are then transported to their final destinations within the cell or outside of it. The Golgi apparatus does not break down and recycle cellular waste, generate energy through cellular respiration, or translate DNA into proteins. Its primary function is related to processing and sorting molecules for cellular use.

5. What term describes the point where parallel rays of light converge or appear to diverge after passing through a lens or reflecting off a mirror?

A. Aperture
B. Focal length
C. Refractive index
D. Lens thickness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Focal length.' Focal length is the term used to describe the point where parallel rays of light converge or appear to diverge after passing through a lens or reflecting off a mirror. It is a critical parameter in optics that determines the magnification and image formation in optical systems. Aperture refers to the opening through which light enters a camera or telescope, not the convergence point of light rays. Refractive index is a measure of how much light is bent, not the point where rays converge. Lens thickness is the physical dimension of a lens and does not indicate the convergence point of light rays. Therefore, 'Focal length' is the most appropriate choice in this context.