TEAS 7 practice test free science

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are essential organisms in the ecosystem as they break down dead organisms and organic matter, such as bacteria, fungi, and some insects. By decomposing complex organic materials into simpler forms, they release nutrients back into the environment for other organisms to utilize. Producers (option A) are organisms that generate their own food through photosynthesis; consumers (option C) are organisms that feed on other organisms for energy, and parasites (option D) are organisms that live on or in another organism, benefiting at the host's expense rather than breaking down dead organisms for nutrient recycling.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A) Directional selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where one extreme trait value on a spectrum is favored over others, leading to a shift in the average trait value over time. B) Disruptive selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where both extreme trait values on a spectrum are favored over the average trait value, potentially causing the population to split into distinct groups. C) Stabilizing selection is a recognized mode of natural selection favoring the average trait value on a spectrum over extreme values, resulting in reduced genetic diversity. D) Sexual selection differs from traditional natural selection modes as it involves mate choice and competition for mates, not direct selection pressure on traits affecting survival and reproduction in the environment. Sexual selection can drive the evolution of traits enhancing an individual's attractiveness for mating purposes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Nuclear fission is the correct answer. It is the process in which a large, unstable nucleus splits into two smaller nuclei, releasing neutrons and energy. Alpha decay, beta decay, and gamma decay involve the emission of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays, respectively. These decay processes do not result in the splitting of a nucleus like nuclear fission does.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct statement is that atomic radius increases down a group and decreases across a period. When moving down a group, additional electron shells increase the distance from the nucleus, leading to larger atomic radii. On the other hand, when moving across a period, the number of electron shells remains constant, but the increasing nuclear charge pulls electrons closer, resulting in smaller radii. Choice B is incorrect because atomic radius does not decrease down a group and increase across a period. Choice C is incorrect because atomic radius does not remain constant; it exhibits specific trends. Choice D is incorrect because atomic radius follows predictable trends based on the periodic table structure, rather than fluctuating unpredictably.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Alkenes are hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond. This double bond is a key characteristic that distinguishes alkenes from other types of hydrocarbons. Option A correctly identifies this defining feature of alkenes, making it the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect because alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons due to the presence of double bonds. Choice C is incorrect as alkenes do not contain only single bonds; they have at least one double bond. Choice D is incorrect because alkenes are not derivatives of ammonia; they are a distinct class of organic compounds with carbon-carbon double bonds.