what is the principle behind optical fibers used in communication

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice

1. What is the principle behind optical fibers used in communication?

A. Reflection of light within the fiber
B. Refraction of light due to different densities within the fiber
C. Total internal reflection guiding light through the fiber core
D. Diffraction of light around bends in the fiber

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Optical fibers used in communication rely on the principle of total internal reflection guiding light through the fiber core. Total internal reflection occurs when light traveling through the core of the fiber is reflected back into the core due to the higher refractive index of the core compared to the cladding. This reflection ensures that the light remains confined within the core and propagates along the fiber without significant loss, allowing for efficient transmission of signals over long distances in optical communication systems. Choice A is incorrect because optical fibers do not primarily rely on simple reflection; instead, they utilize total internal reflection to guide light. Choice B is incorrect as the primary principle is not the refraction of light due to different densities within the fiber, but rather total internal reflection. Choice D is incorrect as diffraction is not the main principle behind optical fibers, which mainly rely on total internal reflection to guide light through the fiber core.

2. Which of the following is NOT a function of the cilia lining the respiratory tract?

A. Trapping inhaled dust and debris
B. Moistening inhaled air
C. Producing mucus
D. Propelling mucus upwards towards the throat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Moistening inhaled air. The cilia lining the respiratory tract primarily function to trap inhaled dust and debris, produce mucus, and propel the mucus upwards towards the throat for removal. Moistening inhaled air is primarily done by the mucous membranes in the nasal passages, which contain blood vessels that help warm and humidify the air as it passes through the nasal cavity. Therefore, the function of moistening inhaled air is not directly associated with the cilia in the respiratory tract, making it the correct choice in this scenario. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are all functions carried out by the cilia in the respiratory tract.

3. What is the study of fungi known as?

A. Virology
B. Mycology
C. Bacteriology
D. Parasitology

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Mycology is the correct answer. Mycology is the branch of biology that specifically deals with the study of fungi. Fungi constitute a separate kingdom of organisms that include various forms such as yeasts, molds, and mushrooms. Virology (A) is the study of viruses, while Bacteriology (C) focuses on bacteria. Parasitology (D) is the study of parasites, which may include protozoa, helminths, and some fungi, but it is not solely dedicated to fungi.

4. What is the function of ribosomal RNA (rRNA)?

A. Carries amino acids to the ribosomes
B. Reads the genetic code on mRNA
C. Forms the structural framework of ribosomes
D. Controls the rate of protein synthesis

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) plays a crucial role in forming the structural framework of ribosomes. Ribosomes are the cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis and consist of both protein and rRNA components. The primary function of rRNA is to provide the structural support necessary for ribosomes to function properly. This structural framework allows the ribosome to interact with messenger RNA (mRNA) and transfer RNA (tRNA) during translation, where genetic information encoded in mRNA is used to assemble proteins from amino acids. Therefore, rRNA's main role is in contributing to the structure and function of ribosomes, rather than directly carrying amino acids, reading the genetic code, or controlling the rate of protein synthesis. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because rRNA does not carry amino acids to the ribosomes (tRNA does this), read the genetic code (this is the role of ribosomes and tRNA), or control the rate of protein synthesis (this is regulated by various factors but not directly by rRNA).

5. Which blood vessel carries oxygenated blood back to the heart?

A. Pulmonary vein
B. Pulmonary artery
C. Aorta
D. Superior vena cava

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The corrected question is asking for a blood vessel that carries oxygenated blood back to the heart. The pulmonary vein is the correct choice as it carries oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the heart during systemic circulation. The pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. The aorta is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body. The superior vena cava returns deoxygenated blood from the upper body back to the heart.