which organelle is responsible for making proteins

HESI A2

Biology HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which organelle is responsible for making proteins?

A. Ribosome
B. Chloroplast
C. Lysosome
D. Mitochondrion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Ribosomes are the organelles responsible for protein synthesis within the cell. They are the sites where amino acids are linked together to form proteins based on the instructions carried by mRNA (messenger RNA). Ribosomes can be found free-floating in the cytoplasm or attached to the endoplasmic reticulum, and they play a crucial role in translating genetic information into proteins. Chloroplasts are responsible for photosynthesis, lysosomes are involved in digestion and waste removal, and mitochondria are known as the powerhouse of the cell responsible for energy production through cellular respiration. Therefore, the ribosome is the correct organelle responsible for making proteins.

2. Which of the following is true of Glycolysis?

A. It requires the absence of Oxygen
B. It occurs in the presence of Oxygen
C. It is the final step of fermentation
D. It is the final step of anaerobic respiration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Glycolysis is the first step in cellular respiration and can occur in both aerobic (presence of oxygen) and anaerobic (absence of oxygen) conditions. In aerobic respiration, glycolysis takes place in the presence of oxygen and continues with the Krebs cycle and the electron transport chain. So, glycolysis does not require the absence of oxygen but can occur in its presence as part of the overall process of aerobic respiration. Choice A is incorrect because glycolysis can occur in the presence of oxygen. Choice C is incorrect because glycolysis is not the final step of fermentation; it is the initial step. Choice D is incorrect because glycolysis is not the final step of anaerobic respiration; it is the first step, followed by further processes to complete anaerobic respiration.

3. Whose energy efficiency is greater?

A. Herbivore
B. Carnivore
C. Omnivore
D. Decomposer

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Decomposers have the greatest efficiency of energy among the given options. Decomposers break down organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances through the process of decomposition. This breakdown process results in the release of nutrients back into the ecosystem, making energy more readily available for other organisms to use. In contrast, herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores all derive their energy from the consumption of other living organisms, making their energy efficiency lower than that of decomposers. Herbivores consume plants for energy, which involves energy loss due to inefficiencies in converting plant matter into usable energy. Carnivores consume herbivores or other carnivores, leading to further energy loss through each trophic level. Omnivores consume both plant and animal matter, but their energy efficiency is still lower than decomposers because of the energy loss associated with consuming living organisms. Decomposers play a crucial role in recycling nutrients and energy in ecosystems, making them highly efficient in the utilization of energy.

4. 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.

5. A scientist needs 12 mL of a solution. They have a bottle with 12L in it. Do they have enough?

A. Yes, they have exactly what they need
B. Yes, they have more than what they need
C. No, they do not have enough
D. None of the above

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 1 liter has 1000 milliliters. To convert from milliliters to liters, the decimal point moves three places to the left. So, the bottle has 12000 mL of solution, which is a lot more than the required 12 mL. Therefore, the scientist has more than what they need. Choice A is incorrect as the bottle has more than the required amount. Choice C is incorrect as the bottle contains significantly more solution than needed. Choice D is incorrect as the scientist does have more than enough solution.