Nursing Elites

1. 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.

2. During normal breathing, which muscle is the primary driver of inhalation by contracting and flattening to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity?

• A. Diaphragm
• B. Intercostal muscles
• C. Abdominal muscles
• D. Pectoral muscles

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for inhalation during normal breathing. When it contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and creating a negative pressure that allows air to flow into the lungs. Intercostal muscles also play a role in expanding the chest cavity during inhalation, but the diaphragm is the main driver of the process. Abdominal muscles are primarily involved in exhalation by pushing the diaphragm upward to expel air from the lungs. Pectoral muscles are involved in movements of the arms and shoulders, not in breathing, making them incorrect choices for this question.

3. Which of the following is a pair of nerves that originates from the brain?

• A. Spinal nerves
• B. Olfactory nerves
• C. Sciatic nerve
• D. Optic nerve

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The olfactory nerves, choice B, are a pair of cranial nerves that originate from the brain. They are responsible for the sense of smell and are the only cranial nerves that directly connect to the cerebrum. Spinal nerves, choice A, originate from the spinal cord, the sciatic nerve, choice C, is a large nerve that originates in the lower back, and the optic nerve, choice D, originates from the retina of the eye. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not originate directly from the brain.

4. The immune response can be categorized into two main branches:

• A. Humoral and cellular
• B. Innate and adaptive
• C. Primary and secondary
• D. Active and passive

Correct answer: A

Rationale: - The immune response can be broadly categorized into two main branches: the humoral immune response and the cellular immune response. - The humoral immune response involves the production of antibodies by B cells and is primarily responsible for defending against extracellular pathogens such as bacteria and viruses in the bloodstream and tissues. - The cellular immune response involves the activation of T cells, which can directly kill infected cells or help coordinate the immune response. This branch is crucial for combating intracellular pathogens like viruses and some bacteria. - Options B, C, and D do not accurately represent the main branches of the immune response and are therefore incorrect.

5. Which of the following body systems controls fluid loss, protects deep tissues, and synthesizes vitamin D?

• A. The skeletal system
• B. The muscular system
• C. The lymphatic system
• D. The integumentary system

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The integumentary system is responsible for controlling fluid loss through sweat, protecting deep tissues as the body's first line of defense, and synthesizing vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. The skin, hair, nails, and associated glands make up the integumentary system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and overall health. The skeletal system (Choice A) provides structural support and protection for internal organs but does not directly control fluid loss, protect deep tissues, or synthesize vitamin D. The muscular system (Choice B) is responsible for movement and stability but is not involved in the functions described. The lymphatic system (Choice C) is primarily responsible for immunity and fluid balance, not the specific functions mentioned in the question.

Similar Questions