Nursing Elites

1. What is the structure of DNA?

• A. Single-stranded, linear
• B. Double-stranded, linear
• C. Double-stranded, helix
• D. Single-stranded, helix

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Double-stranded, helix. DNA is structured as a double helix formed by two strands of nucleotides. The nucleotides are paired with complementary bases (A-T and C-G) in the center, held together by hydrogen bonds. This double-stranded helical structure is a fundamental characteristic of DNA and essential for its function in storing genetic information. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because DNA is not single-stranded; it consists of two strands that run antiparallel to each other and are connected via hydrogen bonds. Additionally, DNA does not have a linear structure but rather a helical one, providing stability and protection to the genetic information it carries.

2. What is the primary difference between ionic and metallic bonding?

• A. Ionic bonds involve electron transfer, while metallic bonds involve electron sharing.
• B. Ionic bonds are weak and directional, while metallic bonds are strong and non-directional.
• C. Ionic bonds exist between metals and non-metals, while metallic bonds exist only between metals.
• D. Ionic bonds form discrete molecules, while metallic bonds form extended structures.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Ionic bonds involve electron transfer, where one atom completely donates an electron to another, resulting in discrete molecules. On the other hand, metallic bonds are non-directional and strong, formed by a 'sea' of delocalized electrons shared among all metal atoms. This shared electron cloud allows for strong bonding throughout the entire material, making metallic bonds non-directional and strong compared to the directional and weaker nature of ionic bonds. Choice A is incorrect because metallic bonds do not involve electron sharing but rather the sharing of a sea of delocalized electrons. Choice C is incorrect as metallic bonds can also exist between metal atoms, not just between metals and non-metals. Choice D is incorrect because metallic bonds do not form discrete molecules but rather extended structures due to the sharing of electrons among all metal atoms.

3. What does half-life refer to?

• A. Radioactive intensity to completely disappear
• B. The number of neutrons in a nucleus to double
• C. The number of protons in a nucleus to change
• D. An isotope to decay by half of its initial quantity

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Half-life refers to the time it takes for half of the radioactive atoms in a sample to decay. This means that after one half-life, half of the initial quantity of the radioactive substance will have decayed. Choice A is incorrect because radioactive intensity doesn't completely disappear during half-life. Choice B is incorrect as half-life doesn't refer to the number of neutrons doubling. Choice C is incorrect as half-life doesn't relate to the number of protons changing.

4. What is the term for the process of a liquid changing into a gas?

• A. Evaporation
• B. Boiling
• C. Condensation
• D. Sublimation

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Evaporation.' Evaporation is the process by which a liquid changes into a gas at any temperature, while boiling specifically refers to the rapid vaporization of a liquid only at its boiling point. Condensation is the opposite process of gas turning into a liquid, and sublimation is the direct transition from solid to gas without passing through the liquid phase.

5. Which of the following is a special property of water?

• A. Water does not easily flow through phospholipid bilayers.
• B. A water molecule's oxygen atom does not allow fish to breathe.
• C. Water is highly cohesive, which explains its high melting point.
• D. Water cannot self-hydrolyze and decompose into hydrogen and oxygen.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Water is highly cohesive, meaning it is attracted to itself due to its hydrogen bonding properties. This cohesion is the reason why water has a high melting point compared to other liquids of similar molecular weight. It is crucial for the existence of life on Earth as it allows water to remain a liquid within a wide range of temperatures, providing a stable environment for biological processes to occur. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Water's cohesive property does not directly relate to its ability to flow through phospholipid bilayers, assist fish in breathing, or self-hydrolyze into hydrogen and oxygen.

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