Biology HESI A2 Practice Exam

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because poor internal consistency indicates that the items in the test do not correlate or measure similar things. This means that the items are not measuring the same construct or concept consistently, leading to unreliable results. Choice A is incorrect as it refers to test-retest reliability, not internal consistency. Choice C is incorrect as the researcher should not influence internal consistency. Choice D is incorrect because items should vary to measure different aspects of the construct.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because salt is corrosive and breaks down the slug's cell walls, leading to dehydration and ultimately killing the slug. When salt comes into contact with the slug's moist body, it absorbs water from the slug's cells, causing damage and dehydration. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not accurately explain the mechanism of how salt affects slugs. Salt does not move into the slug's body, cause water to move outward, or merge with slug slime to form a new compound.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: transcription. Transcription is the process where RNA is synthesized from a DNA template by RNA polymerase. It involves the synthesis of mRNA, tRNA, or rRNA. During transcription, the DNA double helix is unwound, and RNA polymerase reads the DNA sequence and creates a complementary RNA strand. This process occurs in the nucleus in eukaryotic cells and in the cytoplasm in prokaryotic cells. Choice B, synthesis, is a general term that does not specifically refer to the process of RNA synthesis from DNA. Choice C, translation, is the process where mRNA is used to build a polypeptide chain at the ribosome, not the synthesis of RNA from DNA. Choice D, replication, is the process of copying DNA to produce an identical copy of the original DNA molecule, not the synthesis of RNA from DNA.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Capillaries. Capillaries are found in both open and closed circulatory systems as they are the smallest blood vessels where nutrient and gas exchange occurs. In open systems, capillaries allow direct exchange with tissues, while in closed systems, they connect arteries and veins. Arteries (A) are found in closed systems, not open systems. Red blood cells (B) are present in both systems, but this question specifically asks for a structure, not a component. Immune cells (D) are not typically part of the circulatory system.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cell membrane. The cell membrane acts as a protective barrier, regulating the passage of substances in and out of the cell. It provides structural support and helps maintain cell integrity. Mitochondria (A) are responsible for energy production, vacuoles (B) store materials, and ribosomes (D) are involved in protein synthesis. The cell membrane best fits the description of being largely protective.