Biology HESI A2 Practice Test

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: prokaryotic. Prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles and a defined nucleus. They have a simple structure with genetic material floating freely in the cytoplasm. Eukaryotic cells (choice A) have membrane-bound organelles and a nucleus. Embryonic (choice B) refers to a developmental stage, not a cell classification. Symbiotic (choice D) relates to a mutually beneficial relationship between two organisms, not cell classification. In summary, prokaryotic cells are characterized by their lack of membrane-bound organelles and nucleus, distinguishing them from eukaryotic cells, embryonic stages, and symbiotic relationships.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Antibiotics do not cause more bacteria to grow; in fact, they aim to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics interfere with the bacteria's ability to survive by targeting specific processes essential for their growth and reproduction (A). They can affect how bacteria multiply by inhibiting cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, or DNA replication (B). Lastly, antibiotics specifically target bacteria and do not work on viruses or fungi (D). Therefore, choice C is the only statement that is not true about antibiotics.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Homeostasis is necessary to maintain stable internal conditions in the body for optimal function. A: Temperature regulation ensures enzymes work efficiently. B: pH balance is crucial for enzyme activity and cell function. C: Glucose levels impact energy production. D: All choices are essential for overall health and function, making D the correct answer. Maintaining just one aspect wouldn't be enough to support the body's complex processes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cells can convert nutrients to energy. Cellular respiration is the process by which cells break down nutrients to produce energy in the form of ATP. This energy is essential for various cellular functions. Choice A is incorrect because DNA replication is a separate process. Choice B is incorrect as cellular respiration is not related to breathing, which is the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as cell division is a different cellular process called mitosis or meiosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: They lower the activation energy needed. Enzymes lower the activation energy required for a reaction to occur, facilitating the reaction without being consumed in the process. This is crucial in speeding up biological processes. Choices A, C, and D are all true statements about enzymes. A: Enzymes catalyze reactions by speeding up the rate of a chemical reaction. C: Enzymes have an active site where substrate molecules bind, facilitating the reaction. D: Enzymes are typically proteins, although some RNA molecules can also exhibit catalytic activity.