which of the following is the primary physical barrier the body uses to prevent infection

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

1. Which of the following is the primary physical barrier the body uses to prevent infection?

A. mucus membranes
B. stomach acid
C. skin
D. urine

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: skin.' The skin is the primary physical barrier the body uses to prevent infection. It acts as a protective shield that prevents harmful microorganisms from entering the body. The outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, acts as a tough physical barrier that blocks the entry of pathogens. Additionally, the skin has special immune cells that can help fight off invaders that manage to breach the physical barrier. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. While mucous membranes, stomach acid, and urine play important roles in the body's defense against pathogens, the primary physical barrier is the skin, which covers the entire body and provides a robust protective barrier.

2. Which of the following is a major factor influencing the distribution of organisms geographically?

A. The availability of specific types of food sources
B. Tolerance of organisms to different temperature ranges
C. Competition for mates within the same species
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The distribution of organisms geographically is influenced by various factors. The availability of specific types of food sources is crucial as organisms need suitable food sources to survive and thrive in an area. Tolerance of organisms to different temperature ranges is also important, as temperature impacts where species can live. Organisms must withstand temperature conditions to survive. Competition for mates within the same species affects population sizes and dynamics in different areas. Therefore, all these factors collectively influence the distribution of organisms geographically. Choice D, 'All of the above,' is the correct answer because each of the factors mentioned (availability of food sources, tolerance to temperature ranges, and competition for mates) plays a significant role in determining the distribution of organisms in different geographical locations. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they each only represent one specific factor that influences distribution, whereas the correct answer encompasses all the major factors mentioned.

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. When defending a scientific argument, which technique is most effective?

A. Citing other scientists who agree with your argument.
B. Showing the results of scientific experiments that support your argument.
C. Describing your scientific credentials, education, and past accomplishments.
D. Pointing out that no one has come up with a proven alternative explanation.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective technique when defending a scientific argument is to show the results of scientific experiments that support your argument. In the realm of science, evidence-based support is crucial. By presenting concrete data and experimental results, you provide a convincing and reliable foundation for your argument. This method allows others to review, replicate, and verify the findings, thus strengthening the credibility of your position. Choices A, C, and D are not as effective as choice B because citing other scientists who agree with your argument (Choice A) may not carry the same weight as empirical evidence, describing your scientific credentials, education, and past accomplishments (Choice C) may not directly address the validity of your argument, and pointing out that no one has come up with a proven alternative explanation (Choice D) does not provide direct evidence supporting your argument.

5. What is the term for the particles moving within a substance?

A. Ions
B. Atoms
C. Molecules
D. Kinetic energy

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term for the particles moving within a substance is typically 'molecules' or 'atoms,' depending on the state of matter. In this context, 'molecules' represent the particles moving around within a substance, especially in the liquid and gas states, while 'atoms' are the fundamental building blocks of matter. 'Ions' are charged particles that can be present in a substance but are not necessarily the primary particles in motion. 'Kinetic energy' is not a term used to describe the particles themselves but rather the energy associated with their motion.