ATI TEAS Science Practice Test

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The Law of Conservation of Mass states that matter cannot be created or destroyed in a chemical reaction. In the given reaction, 2 moles of hydrogen combine with 1 mole of oxygen to form 2 moles of water. The total mass of the reactants (hydrogen and oxygen) is equal to the total mass of the products (water), meaning there is no decrease or increase in matter. The total mass of the system remains constant, demonstrating the conservation of mass. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the conservation of mass does not specifically relate to electrons, individual elements (like hydrogen), or the formation of new molecules; instead, it focuses on the overall mass of the system before and after the reaction.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lipids are hydrophobic molecules that are soluble in nonpolar solvents like oils but insoluble in water. They consist of fats, oils, waxes, and steroids and play essential roles in energy storage, insulation, and cell membrane structure. Carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids are not typically soluble in nonpolar solvents and do not exhibit the same hydrophobic characteristics as lipids. Carbohydrates are usually hydrophilic and soluble in water, proteins have both hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions but are not generally soluble in nonpolar solvents, and nucleic acids are polar molecules that are not known for their solubility in nonpolar solvents.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Human cells typically contain genes that code for proteins necessary for the cell's functions. DNA that codes for proteins the cell doesn't use would be an inefficient use of the cell's resources. Therefore, it is less likely to be found in a human cell's genes. Options A, B, and C are more commonly associated with genes found in human cells. Choice A refers to the genetic information needed for protein synthesis, while choice B involves traits that can be present in the gene pool. Mutated DNA (choice C) can also be found in human cells as a result of genetic alterations. However, DNA that codes for proteins not utilized by the cell would be redundant and not typically retained in the genome.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Translation is the correct process where ribosomes decode mRNA to synthesize proteins, following the sequence of codons in the mRNA. During translation, ribosomes use the transcribed RNA (mRNA) as a template to assemble amino acids into a protein according to the genetic code carried by the mRNA. Choice B, Transcription, is incorrect as it is the process of synthesizing mRNA from a DNA template. Choice C, Replication, is also incorrect as it involves the duplication of DNA to produce an identical copy. Choice D, Duplication, is not a biological term related to protein synthesis, making it an incorrect choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A gene is a portion of DNA that contains the instructions for a specific trait. Genotype refers to the genetic makeup of an organism, encompassing all its genes. Phenotype, on the other hand, is the observable physical manifestation resulting from the interaction between an organism's genotype and environmental factors. Choice A is incorrect because genes do not consist of amino acids directly; they are sequences of nucleotides. Choice C is incorrect as genes do not determine traits directly but provide the instructions for proteins that may influence traits. Choice D is incorrect as genes are not lipids, and lipids do not determine traits; they are a type of biomolecule with different functions.