TEAS 7 science practice questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Genetic markers are specific DNA sequences that can vary among individuals. In paternity testing, genetic markers are used to compare the DNA of the child with that of the alleged father. By analyzing the presence or absence of specific alleles (different forms of a gene) at these genetic markers, scientists can determine the likelihood of paternity. This method is more accurate and reliable than comparing blood types (choice C) or physical resemblance (choice D) as genetic markers provide a direct comparison of DNA sequences between individuals. Therefore, option B is the correct choice as it accurately describes the use of genetic markers in paternity testing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Vacuoles in plant cells primarily function as storage organelles. They store water, enzymes, pigments, and waste products, helping to maintain turgor pressure within the cell. This turgor pressure provides structural support for the plant cell. While vacuoles can also participate in transporting substances within the cell, their main role is storage. The synthesis of proteins and lipids is mainly handled by other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus. Choice A is incorrect because while vacuoles indirectly contribute to structural support by maintaining turgor pressure, their primary function is storage. Choice B is incorrect as vacuoles are not primarily responsible for transporting substances in and out of the cell. Choice C is incorrect as vacuoles do not synthesize proteins and lipids; this function is carried out by other organelles.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is the prostate gland (Choice C). The prostate gland, located near the bladder, is responsible for producing seminal fluid. This fluid, along with sperm from the testes, makes up semen. The bladder stores urine, the urethra is a tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body, and the kidney filters waste from the blood to produce urine. The prostate gland's specific function is to secrete a milky, alkaline fluid that mixes with sperm during ejaculation to form semen. This fluid helps nourish and protect the sperm, aiding in their motility and viability. Therefore, the prostate gland plays a crucial role in male reproductive function by contributing to the composition and quality of semen, essential for fertility.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The electron cloud model of the atom describes electrons as occupying specific energy levels around the nucleus with varying probabilities. This model does not suggest that electrons precisely orbit in defined paths as stated in option A. It acknowledges the wave-like behavior of electrons and their uncertainty in position, which is not accounted for in options C and D. Option C is incorrect as electrons are not clustered tightly within the nucleus but exist in the space surrounding the nucleus. Option D is incorrect as electrons do not move randomly throughout the entire atom but have specific probabilities of being found in different regions based on their energy levels. Therefore, option B is the most accurate description of the electron cloud model of the atom.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cell division is the correct answer. It is the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells, enabling growth, repair, and reproduction in living organisms. This process ensures that genetic material is accurately passed on to the new cells. Cell differentiation refers to the specialization of cells to perform specific functions, while cell growth is the increase in size or mass of a cell. Cell regeneration involves replacing damaged or lost cells with new ones, where cell division plays a role but is not the primary process of generating new cells. Therefore, in the context of cells producing new cells, cell division is the accurate term.