what is the primary function of the myelin sheath that surrounds some axons in the nervous system

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS 7 science review

1. What is the primary function of the myelin sheath that surrounds some axons in the nervous system?

A. To initiate nerve impulses
B. To transmit sensory information
C. To speed up the transmission of nerve impulses
D. To connect neurons at synapses

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the myelin sheath is to speed up the transmission of nerve impulses. The myelin sheath acts as an insulating layer around the axon, allowing for faster conduction of electrical impulses along the nerve fiber. This insulation prevents the electrical signal from dissipating or 'leaking' out, which helps in the rapid and efficient transmission of nerve impulses along the axon. Choice A is incorrect because the myelin sheath does not initiate nerve impulses; it helps in conducting them. Choice B is incorrect as the myelin sheath's main role is not in transmitting sensory information but rather in facilitating the transmission of nerve impulses. Choice D is incorrect because the myelin sheath's function is not to connect neurons at synapses; instead, it is primarily involved in enhancing the speed of nerve impulse transmission.

2. 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.

3. How do killer T cells recognize infected cells?

A. The B cells flag the infected cells with amino acids.
B. Tiny bits of the virus's RNA are left around the cell.
C. Macrophages show up to help consume the infected cell.
D. The T cells have receptors that recognize the proteins the virus leaves on the surface of the cell.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Killer T cells recognize infected cells by detecting viral proteins displayed on the surface of these cells. The T cells possess receptors specifically designed to identify these viral proteins, allowing them to target and eliminate the infected cells. Choice A is incorrect because B cells are not directly involved in the recognition process of infected cells by killer T cells. Choice B is incorrect because tiny bits of the virus's RNA being left around the cell is not how killer T cells primarily recognize infected cells. Choice C is incorrect because while macrophages play a role in immune responses, they do not directly assist in the recognition of infected cells by killer T cells.

4. What is the process of combining two or more substances to form a heterogeneous mixture called?

A. Dissolving
B. Diluting
C. Mixing
D. Reacting

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Mixing.' When substances are combined, a heterogeneous mixture is formed where the components are physically distinguishable. 'Dissolving' (Choice A) is the process of a solute becoming uniformly dispersed in a solvent to form a solution, not a heterogeneous mixture. 'Diluting' (Choice B) refers to reducing the concentration of a solute in a solution. 'Reacting' (Choice D) involves a chemical change where substances interact to form new products, rather than just physically mixing to form a heterogeneous mixture.

5. How does RNA polymerase differ from DNA polymerase?

A. Both enzymes are identical in function and structure.
B. RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis.
C. RNA polymerase can synthesize both RNA and DNA.
D. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, unlike DNA polymerase.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase and DNA polymerase are not identical in function and structure. They have different roles in the cell. B) This statement is correct. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis. RNA polymerase can start the synthesis of RNA de novo. C) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase is specialized for synthesizing RNA, not DNA. DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA. D) This statement is correct. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, while DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA.