HESI A2
HESI A2 Practice Test Biology Questions
Question 1 of 9
Cells reproduce by different processes, all of which fall into what two categories?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Cells reproduce through two main processes: 'sexual reproduction and asexual reproduction.' Sexual reproduction involves the fusion of gametes to produce offspring with genetic variation, while asexual reproduction involves the production of offspring genetically identical to the parent. Choice A is incorrect because binary fission is a form of asexual reproduction, not sexual reproduction. Choice C is incorrect because it combines two forms of asexual reproduction. Choice D is incorrect because mitosis is a specific type of cell division, not a form of reproduction involving the production of offspring.
Question 2 of 9
What is the role of tRNA during protein synthesis?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: During protein synthesis, tRNA plays the crucial role of carrying amino acids to the ribosome. This process ensures that the correct amino acids are brought to the ribosome according to the mRNA sequence. Choice B, linking nucleotides together, refers to the role of RNA polymerase in transcription, not tRNA. Choice C, copying DNA sequences, is the function of DNA polymerase during DNA replication, while choice D, replicating genetic material, is an overarching function of DNA replication, not specific to tRNA's role in protein synthesis.
Question 3 of 9
Which of the following is not a product of the Krebs cycle?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: oxygen. Oxygen is not a product of the Krebs cycle. During the Krebs cycle, carbon dioxide, adenosine triphosphate (ATP), and energy carriers like NADH and FADH2 are produced. Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of the cycle, ATP is a form of energy produced, and energy carriers play a crucial role in transferring energy within the cell. Therefore, oxygen is the only option that is not a product of the Krebs cycle, making it the correct answer.
Question 4 of 9
What happens during the S phase of the cell cycle?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: During the S phase of the cell cycle, chromosomes are duplicated. This is a critical step in cell division as each chromosome is replicated to ensure that the resulting daughter cells receive an identical set of genetic information. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because cell growth primarily occurs in the G1 phase, DNA synthesis happens during the S phase, and DNA destruction does not occur during any phase of the cell cycle.
Question 5 of 9
Which of the following organelles are responsible for producing cell energy?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mitochondrion and chloroplast. Mitochondria and chloroplasts are the organelles responsible for producing cell energy through cellular respiration and photosynthesis, respectively. Choice B is incorrect because the nucleus is not involved in energy production. Choice C is incorrect as the nucleus is not an organelle that produces energy. Choice D is incorrect as lysosomes function in digesting waste materials, not in energy production.
Question 6 of 9
Which of the following is not found within a bacterial cell?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: mitochondria. Mitochondria are not found in bacterial cells. Bacterial cells lack membrane-bound organelles like mitochondria, which are commonly found in eukaryotic cells. Choices B, C, and D are all components that can be found within a bacterial cell. Bacterial cells contain DNA as their genetic material, vesicles for various cellular functions, and ribosomes for protein synthesis. Therefore, the presence of mitochondria is the distinguishing factor that is not found in bacterial cells, making option A the correct answer.
Question 7 of 9
The cell membrane consists of a bilayer of phospholipids with proteins, cholesterol, and glycoproteins. What does this bilayer create?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Selectively permeable.' The cell membrane's bilayer structure allows it to be selectively permeable, meaning it can control the passage of substances. This property enables the membrane to regulate the entry and exit of specific molecules, ions, and other substances. Choice A, 'Impermeable,' is incorrect as the cell membrane is not completely impermeable and does allow certain substances to pass through. Choice B, 'Permeable,' is also incorrect as it does not address the selective nature of the membrane. Choice D, 'Selectively impermeable,' is a contradictory term and does not accurately describe the cell membrane's function.
Question 8 of 9
How are molecules of water bonded to each other?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Water molecules are bonded to each other by 'hydrogen' bonds. These bonds are not as strong as covalent bonds, which hold the atoms within each water molecule together (Choice B). Ionic bonds (Choice A) involve the transfer of electrons between atoms, which is not the case in water molecules. The term 'molecular' (Choice D) is too general and doesn't specifically describe the type of bond between water molecules.
Question 9 of 9
What is the role of ribosomes in the cell?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Synthesize proteins. Ribosomes are responsible for protein synthesis by linking amino acids together. Choice A is incorrect because ribosomes do not break down cellular waste. Choice B is incorrect as ribosomes do not organize cellular division. Choice D is incorrect because ribosomes do not provide cellular structure.