HESI A2
HESI A2 Biology 2024 Questions
Question 1 of 5
From which component do RNA and DNA derive their names?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: RNA and DNA derive their names from the sugar each contains. RNA stands for Ribonucleic Acid, with 'ribo' indicating the ribose sugar in its structure. DNA stands for Deoxyribonucleic Acid, with 'deoxyribo' referring to the deoxyribose sugar in its structure. The sugars in RNA and DNA molecules distinguish them and are the basis for their names. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately explain how RNA and DNA derive their names.
Question 2 of 5
If bacteria are placed in a strong solution of salt water, they will shrink as water moves out of the bacteria. What is this process called?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Osmosis is the process by which water molecules move across a semipermeable membrane from an area of lower solute concentration to an area of higher solute concentration. In this case, when bacteria are placed in a strong solution of salt water, the high concentration of solutes outside the bacteria causes water to move out of the bacteria, leading to shrinkage. This process is known as osmosis. Dehydration synthesis (Choice A) is a process where molecules combine by removing water. Hydrolysis (Choice B) is the breakdown of molecules by the addition of water. Isotonic transport (Choice D) does not accurately describe the specific movement of water in or out of bacterial cells in a hypertonic solution.
Question 3 of 5
Which animal has an open transport system?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Earthworm. Earthworms have an open circulatory system, meaning their blood and interstitial fluid are not enclosed in blood vessels. Instead, the blood flows freely within the body cavity, allowing for direct exchange of nutrients and waste products with surrounding tissues. This lack of a closed transport system is a characteristic feature of earthworms. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because grasshoppers, dolphins, and chickens have closed circulatory systems where the blood is enclosed within blood vessels, unlike earthworms.
Question 4 of 5
How does an enzyme work on a chemical reaction that occurs in a substrate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Enzymes are biological catalysts that facilitate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This allows the reaction to proceed more quickly and efficiently. Enzymes do not change the overall outcome of the reaction, but they significantly increase the rate at which it takes place. Therefore, choice B, 'An enzyme speeds up the chemical reaction,' is the correct answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because enzymes do not slow down, have no effect, or stop chemical reactions; instead, they accelerate the process by lowering the activation energy.
Question 5 of 5
Where is the ovary located in a flowering plant?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The ovary is located in the pistil of a flowering plant. The pistil is the female reproductive part of the flower, and it consists of the ovary, style, and stigma. The ovary contains ovules, which develop into seeds after fertilization. Choice A, 'Anther,' is incorrect because the anther is the part of the flower's stamen that produces pollen. Choice C, 'Stamen,' is incorrect because the stamen is the male reproductive part of the flower, consisting of the anther and filament. Choice D, 'Calyx,' is incorrect because the calyx is the outermost whorl of a flower, composed of sepals that protect the flower bud.