which one of the following best describes the function of a cell membrane
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HESI A2

HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

1. Which one of the following best describes the function of a cell membrane?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The function of a cell membrane is to control the substances entering and leaving the cell. The cell membrane is selectively permeable, allowing it to regulate the movement of ions and molecules in and out of the cell to maintain internal balance and proper function. Choice B is incorrect because while the cell membrane does provide some structural support, its primary function is not to maintain the cell's shape. Choice C is incorrect because the cell membrane controls both the substances entering and leaving the cell, not just those entering. Choice D is incorrect as the primary function of the cell membrane is not to support the cell's structures but to regulate the movement of substances.

2. What is the term for the breakdown of glycogen into glucose subunits?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hydrolysis is the term used to describe the breakdown of large molecules into smaller units by adding water. In the case of glycogen being broken down into glucose subunits, this process involves the addition of water molecules to break the glycosidic bonds between glucose molecules, resulting in the release of individual glucose subunits. This process is crucial for providing cells with a source of energy when needed. Choice B, Reduction, refers to a chemical reaction involving a gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state, not the breakdown of glycogen into glucose subunits. Choice C, Metabolism, is a broad term encompassing all biochemical processes in an organism, including anabolism and catabolism, but does not specifically describe the breakdown of glycogen into glucose subunits. Choice D, Transpiration, is the process of water movement through a plant and is not related to the breakdown of glycogen into glucose subunits.

3. Which of the following bases is not present in RNA?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Thymine is not present in RNA. RNA uses uracil as one of its bases, which pairs with adenine. In RNA, adenine does not pair with thymine as in DNA. Cytosine and guanine are the other two bases found in both RNA and DNA.

4. Which statement regarding energy content is true?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Producers > secondary consumers." Producers, like plants, are the foundation of the energy pyramid, containing the highest energy content in an ecosystem. They convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis. Secondary consumers, being organisms that feed on other organisms, have lower energy content compared to producers. This hierarchy in energy content is due to the transfer of energy through trophic levels. Choice A is incorrect because decomposers, though essential for nutrient recycling, typically have lower energy content than secondary consumers. Choice B is incorrect because primary consumers, which feed directly on producers, have lower energy content than producers. Choice D is incorrect because secondary consumers have lower energy content compared to primary consumers.

5. The fur color in a population of dogs is controlled by two alleles: black (B) and tan (b). The black allele exhibits complete dominance. If the phenotype of the dog is tan fur, what is its genotype?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "bb." Since tan fur is the recessive trait controlled by the allele 'b,' the only possible genotype for a dog with tan fur is 'bb.' If a dog had the genotype 'BB' or 'Bb,' the dominant trait (black fur) would be expressed, not tan fur. Choice D, 'Not enough information,' is incorrect because based on the information provided, we can deduce the genotype of a dog with tan fur.

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