Nursing Elites

1. What is the process by which a large, unstable nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing neutrons and energy?

• A. Alpha decay
• B. Beta decay
• C. Gamma decay
• D. Nuclear fission

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Nuclear fission is the correct answer. It is the process in which a large, unstable nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing neutrons and energy. Alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay involve the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays, respectively. These decay processes do not result in the splitting of a nucleus like nuclear fission does.

2. Which of the following structures is responsible for gas exchange in the lungs?

• A. Bronchi
• B. Alveoli
• C. Trachea
• D. Diaphragm

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs where the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place. Oxygen from inhaled air diffuses into the blood vessels surrounding the alveoli, while carbon dioxide from the blood is released into the alveoli to be exhaled. The bronchi are air passages that carry air into the lungs but do not participate in gas exchange. The trachea is the windpipe that connects the larynx to the bronchi and serves as an airway for breathing. The diaphragm is a muscle that aids in the breathing process by contracting and relaxing to change the volume of the chest cavity.

3. Which of the following meninges is a thin membrane containing numerous nerves and blood vessels that supply nourishment to the underlying brain cells and spinal cord?

• A. Arachnoid mater
• B. Dura mater
• C. Periosteum
• D. Pia mater

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The pia mater is the correct answer. It is a thin, innermost layer of the meninges that contains numerous nerves and blood vessels, providing nourishment to the underlying brain cells and spinal cord. The arachnoid mater (Choice A) is the middle layer of the meninges and does not contain as many nerves and blood vessels as the pia mater. The dura mater (Choice B) is the tough, outermost layer of the meninges and is not responsible for supplying nourishment. The periosteum (Choice C) is a connective tissue membrane covering bones, not part of the meninges.

4. What is the primary function of the stomach in the digestive system?

• A. To absorb nutrients
• B. To break down proteins
• C. To neutralize stomach acid
• D. To regulate body temperature

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To break down proteins.' The primary function of the stomach in the digestive system is to break down proteins using gastric acid and enzymes. The stomach's acidic environment aids in protein digestion and prepares food for further processing in the small intestine. Choice A is incorrect because nutrient absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine, not the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because the stomach actually produces stomach acid to aid in digestion, not to neutralize it. Choice D is incorrect because regulating body temperature is not a primary function of the stomach within the digestive system.

5. What is the relationship between the Pauli exclusion principle and the structure of the atom?

• A. It defines the maximum number of electrons allowed in each energy level.
• B. It explains why oppositely charged particles attract each other.
• C. It describes the wave-particle duality of electrons.
• D. It determines the arrangement of protons and neutrons in the nucleus.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The Pauli exclusion principle states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of quantum numbers. This principle defines the maximum number of electrons allowed in each energy level, influencing the structure of the atom. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to the concept of electrostatic attraction, not directly related to the Pauli exclusion principle. Choice C is incorrect as it pertains to the wave-particle duality, a different aspect of quantum mechanics. Choice D is incorrect as it relates to the arrangement of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, not governed by the Pauli exclusion principle.

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