HESI A2
Biology HESI A2 2024 Questions
Question 1 of 5
What kind of symbiosis exists between a pneumonia bacterium and a human?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In the case of a pneumonia bacterium and a human, the relationship is best described as parasitism. The bacterium benefits by causing harm to the human host, while the human is negatively affected by the presence of the bacterium, leading to illness or infection. This is a classic example of a parasitic relationship where one organism benefits at the expense of the other. Mutualism (Choice A) is a type of symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit from each other. Commensalism (Choice C) is a symbiotic relationship where one organism benefits, and the other is neither helped nor harmed. Competition (Choice D) refers to a relationship where both organisms are negatively affected by each other as they compete for resources.
Question 2 of 5
Beeswax is an example of what kind of molecule?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Beeswax is primarily composed of esters of long-chain aliphatic alcohols and fatty acids, making it a type of lipid. Lipids are a diverse group of molecules that are hydrophobic in nature and have important functions in energy storage, signaling, and forming cellular membranes. Beeswax's chemical composition and properties categorize it as a lipid rather than a carbohydrate, protein, or nucleic acid. Carbohydrates are composed of sugars, proteins are made up of amino acids, and nucleic acids consist of nucleotides; none of which match the chemical composition of beeswax.
Question 3 of 5
What takes place in a lysosome?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: In a lysosome, food particles are digested through the action of enzymes. Lysosomes are membrane-bound organelles containing digestive enzymes that break down large molecules into smaller ones, allowing the cell to utilize the nutrients for energy and other processes. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because ribosomes are not made in lysosomes, food is not produced in lysosomes, and lysosomes do not store water.
Question 4 of 5
Which organism reproduces via binary fission?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Salmonella. Salmonella bacterium reproduces via binary fission, a form of asexual reproduction where the cell divides into two daughter cells with identical genetic material. This process is common among bacteria and single-celled organisms. Mushrooms reproduce through spores, blue whales and rainbow trout reproduce sexually, involving the fusion of male and female gametes. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not reproduce through binary fission.
Question 5 of 5
During which phase of cell division do the chromosomes replicate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Chromosomes replicate during the interphase of the cell cycle. Interphase is the phase where the cell prepares for division by undergoing various activities such as growth, DNA replication, and protein synthesis. During DNA replication in interphase, each chromosome in the cell is duplicated to form two sister chromatids, which are then separated during cell division. Prophase is the phase where the chromosomes condense, and the nuclear envelope breaks down. Anaphase is the phase where sister chromatids are pulled apart towards opposite poles of the cell. Telophase is the phase where the nuclear envelope reforms, and chromosomes begin to decondense.