which of the following is always true about molecules

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which of the following is always true about molecules?

A. They cannot travel through all cell membranes
B. They move from low concentration to high concentration without using energy
C. They move from high concentration to low concentration without using energy
D. They cannot move

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The statement that molecules move from high concentration to low concentration without using energy is always true due to the natural process of diffusion. This movement occurs to reach equilibrium and does not require any additional energy input directly from the molecule itself. Choice A is incorrect because not all molecules can travel through all cell membranes. Choice B is incorrect as molecules typically move from high concentration to low concentration in a process known as passive transport. Choice D is incorrect as molecules are in constant motion due to factors like temperature and kinetic energy.

2. Which color of light is least effective at driving photosynthesis?

A. Violet
B. Green
C. Orange
D. Red

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Green light is the least effective at driving photosynthesis because chlorophyll, the primary pigment responsible for absorbing light in plants, does not absorb green light well. Instead, chlorophyll absorbs more effectively in the blue and red regions of the light spectrum. Therefore, green light is relatively less efficient in promoting photosynthesis compared to violet, orange, and red light. Violet light, although at the shorter wavelength end of the spectrum, can still drive photosynthesis better than green light. Orange and red light are more efficiently absorbed by chlorophyll, making them more effective in driving the process of photosynthesis.

3. Why can animal cells use a contractile ring but plant cells cannot?

A. Plant cells can use both methods to divide
B. Animal cells divide faster, requiring them to pinch apart
C. Plant cells are too rigid to use a contractile ring
D. N/A

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Plant cells have a rigid cell wall surrounding them, which prevents them from using a contractile ring for cell division. The rigid cell wall requires plant cells to form a cell plate during cell division instead of pinching apart like animal cells with a contractile ring. Choice A is incorrect because plant cells cannot use a contractile ring due to their rigid cell wall. Choice B is incorrect as the speed of cell division is not the primary reason for the difference in cell division mechanisms between plant and animal cells. Choice D is not applicable as plant cells indeed have a specific limitation in using a contractile ring for cell division.

4. What is the primary function of the endoplasmic reticulum in a cell?

A. Energy production
B. Protein synthesis
C. Waste removal
D. Transport of materials

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum's primary function is the transport of materials within the cell. It acts as a network of membranes to assist in the transportation of proteins and other substances throughout the cell. Choice A, 'Energy production,' is incorrect because the endoplasmic reticulum is not directly involved in energy production. Choice B, 'Protein synthesis,' is incorrect as protein synthesis mainly occurs in ribosomes, although the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in modifying and transporting proteins. Choice C, 'Waste removal,' is also incorrect as waste removal is primarily handled by other organelles like lysosomes and peroxisomes.

5. Which of the following is not a function of the skeletal system?

A. Providing the shape and form of our bodies
B. Supporting and protecting the body
C. Producing blood
D. Storing vitamins

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Producing blood is not a function of the skeletal system. Blood production primarily occurs in the bone marrow, which is found within the bones. The skeletal system provides the shape and form of our bodies, supports and protects the body, and stores minerals like calcium and phosphorus for various functions. Storing vitamins is not a primary function of the skeletal system, although some vitamins may play a role in bone health.