HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Biology
1. Which of the following describes how a bacterium reproduces?
- A. Mitosis
- B. Meiosis
- C. Binary fission
- D. Cytokinesis
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Bacteria reproduce through a process called 'binary fission.' During binary fission, a bacterium duplicates its DNA and then divides into two identical daughter cells. This method is the primary way bacteria replicate. Choice A, 'Mitosis,' is incorrect because mitosis is a process specific to eukaryotic cells, where the nucleus divides to produce two identical nuclei. Choice B, 'Meiosis,' is incorrect as meiosis is a specialized type of cell division that produces gametes with half the chromosome number. Choice D, 'Cytokinesis,' is not the correct answer as cytokinesis is the physical process of cell division, which occurs after the genetic material has been divided in mitosis or meiosis.
2. When plants do not receive enough water, their photosynthetic rate drops. This is because:
- A. water is a raw material for the light reactions in photosynthesis
- B. carbon dioxide is not available
- C. water provides the carbon atoms used to make sugar
- D. not enough oxygen is produced to keep fermentation running
Correct answer: A
Rationale: When plants do not receive enough water, their photosynthetic rate drops because water is a raw material required for the light reactions in photosynthesis. In the light reactions, water is split to provide electrons, which are then utilized to produce energy carriers used in converting carbon dioxide into glucose during the Calvin cycle. Therefore, without sufficient water, the light reactions cannot proceed effectively, ultimately leading to a decrease in photosynthetic rate. Choice B is incorrect because carbon dioxide is a separate raw material needed for the Calvin cycle, not the light reactions. Choice C is incorrect as water provides electrons, not carbon atoms, for photosynthesis. Choice D is incorrect because fermentation is not directly related to photosynthesis; oxygen is produced during photosynthesis, not fermentation.
3. In the scientific process, which of the following is a statement or explanation of certain events or happenings?
- A. hypothesis
- B. observation
- C. experiment
- D. conclusion
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A hypothesis is a statement or explanation of certain events or phenomena based on observations and prior knowledge. It is a testable prediction that guides the scientific investigation process. By formulating a hypothesis, scientists can make predictions and design experiments to gather data and test the validity of the hypothesis. Observations (choice B) involve gathering information through the senses. Experiments (choice C) are procedures carried out to support or refute a hypothesis. Conclusions (choice D) are deductions made based on the results of experiments and observations, but they are not the initial statement or explanation of events or happenings.
4. What type of cells are involved in meiosis (sex cells)?
- A. Somatic Cells
- B. Gametes
- C. Zygote
- D. Diploid Cells
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, Gametes. Gametes are the specialized sex cells involved in meiosis, such as sperm and eggs. Somatic cells (A) are non-reproductive cells found in the body, not involved in meiosis. Zygote (C) is the result of fertilization, formed when gametes unite. Diploid cells (D) have two sets of chromosomes, but in meiosis, gametes are produced through a process of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half to haploid.
5. Choose the two bases that have two carbon rings:
- A. Adenine
- B. Cytosine
- C. Thymine
- D. Guanine
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Adenine and guanine have two carbon rings and are known as purines. These bases are found in nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA. Adenine (option A) and guanine (option D) are the correct choices as they both have two carbon rings in their molecular structure. Cytosine (option B) and thymine (option C) have a single carbon ring each, making them incorrect choices for bases with two carbon rings.
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