Nursing Elites

1. What is the smallest unit that can encode for a trait?

• A. A codon
• B. A gene
• C. A nucleotide
• D. A chromosome

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B - a gene. Genes are the smallest units that can encode for a trait as they contain the specific instructions for producing a particular characteristic or protein. While codons are sequences of nucleotides that code for specific amino acids in a protein, they are not the smallest unit that encodes for a trait. Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, and chromosomes are made up of DNA and proteins, containing many genes.

2. During embryonic development, all tissues originate from

• A. Epithelial tissue only
• B. Muscle tissue only
• C. Connective tissue only
• D. Embryonic germ layers

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During embryonic development, all tissues originate from the three primary germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. These germ layers give rise to various tissues and organs in the developing embryo through a process called gastrulation. Epithelial, muscle, and connective tissues are derived from these germ layers during development. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as tissues do not originate from a single type of tissue but rather from the embryonic germ layers which differentiate into various tissues and organs.

3. What is the process by which decomposers break down organic matter?

• A. Photosynthesis
• B. Bioremediation
• C. Decomposition
• D. Nitrification

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy to produce glucose from carbon dioxide and water. This process is not related to the breakdown of organic matter by decomposers. B) Bioremediation is the use of living organisms to clean up contaminated environments. While it involves the use of microorganisms to break down pollutants, it is not specifically focused on breaking down organic matter. C) Decomposition is the process by which decomposers such as bacteria, fungi, and other organisms break down organic matter into simpler substances. This process is essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems. D) Nitrification is the biological oxidation of ammonia or ammonium to nitrite followed by the oxidation of nitrite to nitrate by nitrifying bacteria. This process is part of the nitrogen cycle and is not directly related to the breakdown of organic matter.

4. Which form of energy is associated with the motion of an object?

• A. Kinetic energy
• B. Potential energy
• C. Thermal energy
• D. Electrical energy

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Kinetic energy is the form of energy associated with the motion of an object. When an object is in motion, it possesses kinetic energy due to its movement. Potential energy, on the other hand, is stored energy that an object has due to its position or condition. Thermal energy is related to heat, while electrical energy is associated with the flow of electric charge. In this case, the correct answer is kinetic energy as it directly correlates with the motion of an object.

5. Which of the following is NOT a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection?

• A. Mutations in genes
• B. Differential survival and reproduction based on traits
• C. Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out)
• D. Competition for resources in an environment

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A) Mutations in genes can introduce new genetic variations into a population, which can be acted upon by natural selection. B) Differential survival and reproduction based on traits is a key component of natural selection, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation. C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics, also known as Lamarckism, is not a mechanism of evolution by natural selection. Traits acquired during an individual's lifetime (such as strong muscles from working out) are not passed on to offspring. D) Competition for resources in an environment can drive natural selection by favoring individuals with traits that help them better compete for limited resources. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out), as it is not a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection.

Similar Questions