Nursing Elites

1. Which of the following enzymes unwinds the double-stranded DNA during replication?

• A. Helicase
• B. Ligase
• C. Nuclease
• D. Polymerase

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Helicase is the enzyme responsible for unwinding the double-stranded DNA during replication by breaking the hydrogen bonds between the base pairs. This process creates the replication fork where DNA polymerase can then synthesize new DNA strands. Ligase functions to join Okazaki fragments on the lagging strand, not unwind DNA. Nuclease is involved in DNA repair by removing damaged DNA segments. Polymerase is responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands based on the existing template strands, not for unwinding the DNA.

2. Which force opposes the relative motion between surfaces in contact?

• A. Tension force
• B. Frictional force
• C. Gravitational force
• D. Magnetic force

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Frictional force. Frictional force opposes the relative motion between surfaces in contact. When two surfaces are in contact and one tries to slide over the other, the frictional force resists this motion, making it harder for the surfaces to move relative to each other. Choice A, tension force, is incorrect because tension force is a force transmitted through a string, rope, cable, or wire when it is pulled tight by forces acting from opposite ends. Choice C, gravitational force, is incorrect as it is the force of attraction between two masses. Choice D, magnetic force, is incorrect as it is the force exerted between magnetic objects.

3. What role does DNA play in evolution?

• A. It stores genetic information that can be passed on to offspring.
• B. It allows for mutations that can introduce new variations.
• C. It regulates the expression of genes that influence traits.
• D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) DNA stores genetic information that is passed on from parents to offspring through the process of reproduction. This genetic information contains instructions for the development and functioning of an organism. It serves as the hereditary material that carries the blueprint for an organism's traits and characteristics, allowing for the transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next. B) DNA can undergo mutations, which are changes in the genetic sequence. These mutations can introduce new variations in the DNA, leading to genetic diversity within a population. These variations are essential for natural selection and adaptation to changing environments. C) DNA plays a crucial role in regulating the expression of genes. Gene expression determines which proteins are produced in an organism, influencing its traits and characteristics. By controlling gene expression, DNA contributes to the development and maintenance of an organism's traits. D) Therefore, DNA is involved in all of the above processes, making it a key factor in evolution by driving genetic variation, inheritance, and gene expression. The interplay of these functions allows for the diversity and adaptation of species over time, shaping the evolutionary process.

4. Two nursing students will be completing a scientific experiment measuring the mass of chewed gum after one-minute chewing increments. Which lab equipment will the students most likely use?

• A. Triple beam balance
• B. Anemometer
• C. Hot plate
• D. Microscope

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Triple beam balance. A triple beam balance is the most suitable lab equipment for measuring mass accurately, which is necessary for this experiment. An anemometer measures wind speed, a hot plate is used for heating substances, and a microscope is used for magnifying objects, none of which are relevant to measuring the mass of chewed gum.

5. What scientific term encompasses a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence?

• A. Trait
• B. Mutation
• C. Allele
• D. Variation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A) Trait: A trait is a characteristic or feature of an organism that is determined by its genes. B) Mutation: A mutation is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that can result from errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens, or other factors. C) Allele: An allele is a variant form of a gene that can result in different traits or characteristics. D) Variation: Variation refers to the differences in traits or characteristics among individuals of the same species, which can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors. In this context, the term that specifically refers to a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence is "mutation."

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