HESI A2 Biology 2024

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Osmosis. Osmosis is the process of water moving across a semi-permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration. In this scenario, the strong salt solution outside the bacteria creates a hypertonic environment, causing water to move out of the bacteria, leading to its shrinkage. Dehydration synthesis (A) is a process where molecules combine to form a larger molecule with the loss of water. Hydrolysis (B) is the opposite process where a larger molecule is broken down into smaller molecules by the addition of water. Isotonic transport (D) refers to the movement of molecules across a membrane to maintain equilibrium, not the specific process described in the question.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Mutualism. This is because mutualism is a symbiotic relationship where both organisms benefit. In this type of relationship, both organisms obtain advantages such as food, protection, or other resources. On the other hand, choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Parasitism (B) involves one organism benefiting at the expense of the other. Commensalism (C) is a relationship where one organism benefits while the other is neither helped nor harmed. Competition (D) is a relationship where organisms compete for limited resources, resulting in one or both organisms being negatively affected. Thus, the most suitable term for a relationship where both organisms benefit is mutualism.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Blue. Blue light is essential for photosynthesis as it is absorbed by chlorophyll, the pigment that drives the process. Blue light helps in vegetative growth and overall plant development. Yellow, green, and orange lights are not as effective as they are not as readily absorbed by plants for photosynthesis. Yellow and green lights do not provide the necessary energy for plant growth, while orange light is less efficient in promoting photosynthesis compared to blue light. Therefore, blue light is the most effective choice for growing green plants indoors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C (50%). In this scenario, the male offspring will inherit the X chromosome with the hemophilia gene from the mother, making him a hemophiliac. The female offspring will inherit one X chromosome with the hemophilia gene, making her a carrier. Therefore, 50% of the offspring are predicted to be carriers only. Option A (0%) is incorrect as carriers will be present. Option B (25%) is incorrect because only male offspring will have hemophilia. Option D (100%) is incorrect as not all offspring will be carriers.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The function of decomposition in the carbon cycle is to break down organic matter into simpler compounds, releasing carbon dioxide back into the atmosphere. This is crucial for recycling nutrients and maintaining balance in the ecosystem. Decomposition does not produce light energy (A), convert carbon to fuel (B), or store food for consumers (D). The correct answer, C, aligns with the process of decomposition and its role in returning carbon to the atmosphere through the release of carbon dioxide.