Mometrix TEAS 7 science practice test

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of classification, 'monophyletic' refers to a group that includes a common ancestor and all of its descendants. This group shares a single evolutionary origin and forms a complete branch on a phylogenetic tree. Monophyletic groups are considered natural and valid taxonomic units because they reflect evolutionary relationships accurately. Option D is the correct choice as it accurately defines the term 'monophyletic' in the context of classification. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because 'monophyletic' does not refer to a group with a single representative organism but rather a group descended from a common ancestor. Choice B is incorrect as a monophyletic group consists of related, not diverse and unrelated, members. Choice C is incorrect as a monophyletic group includes descendants from a common ancestor, not just organisms with similar functions but different origins.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The hydroxyl functional group (OH) is commonly found in alcohols, giving them their characteristic properties. Alcohols are organic compounds that contain a hydroxyl group bonded to a carbon atom. The other choices, carbonyl, amine, and ester, are associated with different functional groups commonly found in other types of organic compounds. Carbonyl groups consist of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom. Amines contain a nitrogen atom bonded to hydrogen atoms. Esters consist of a carbonyl group bonded to an alkoxyl group. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Hydroxyl (B),' as it specifically relates to the functional group present in alcohols, distinguishing it from the other options.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Smooth muscle is the correct answer. It is found in the walls of blood vessels and helps regulate blood flow by contracting and relaxing to adjust the diameter of the vessels. Skeletal muscle, found attached to bones, is responsible for voluntary movements and is not typically found in blood vessel walls. Cardiac muscle is specific to the heart and responsible for pumping blood, not found in blood vessel walls. Striated muscle, another term for skeletal muscle, is characterized by its striped appearance under a microscope but is not present in blood vessel walls.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Action potentials, the all-or-nothing electrical signals traveling along neurons, are generated by the movement of sodium and potassium ions across the neuronal membrane. This movement creates changes in the membrane potential, leading to the propagation of the electrical signal along the neuron. Glucose is a source of energy for neurons but is not directly involved in generating action potentials. Neurotransmitters are involved in communication between neurons but do not directly generate action potentials. Myelin is a fatty substance that insulates and speeds up the conduction of action potentials but does not generate them.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system is to prevent food from entering the trachea. During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the opening of the trachea, guiding food down the esophagus to the stomach and preventing it from entering the airway. This mechanism safeguards the respiratory system from foreign objects, ensuring proper air passage and avoiding potential choking hazards. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A) Filtration of air is mainly performed by the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. B) Production of mucus is primarily carried out by the mucous glands in the respiratory system to trap particles and humidify the air. D) Oxygen exchange in the alveoli occurs in the lungs and is related to the process of respiration, not the function of the epiglottis.