TEAS 7 science practice questions

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Nuclear binding energy represents the energy required to hold protons and neutrons together within a nucleus. This energy is needed to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between positively charged protons and keep the nucleus stable. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A relates to ionization energy, which is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom. Choices C and D refer to nuclear reactions (fission and fusion), which involve processes different from the concept of nuclear binding energy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Consuming sufficient dietary fiber promotes satiety and gut health by adding bulk to the diet, helping with feelings of fullness, and supporting healthy digestion. Additionally, fiber aids in regulating bowel movements and maintaining a healthy gut microbiota, contributing to overall digestive wellness. It does not provide a concentrated source of energy as fiber is not fully digested for energy production, nor does it directly aid in the absorption of vitamins and minerals. Fiber does not break down complex carbohydrates but rather assists in their digestion and absorption by slowing down the process, which helps in maintaining stable blood sugar levels and promoting better overall health.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in maintaining electrolyte balance, specifically by regulating sodium and potassium levels in the body. Its primary function involves acting on the kidneys to increase the reabsorption of sodium and water while promoting the excretion of potassium. This process is essential for regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and electrolyte concentrations in the body. Epinephrine is associated with the fight or flight response, cortisol is a stress hormone, and insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels as produced by the pancreas. Therefore, the correct answer is Aldosterone as it directly targets electrolyte balance, particularly sodium and potassium, in the body.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A nosocomial infection, also known as a healthcare-associated infection (HAI), is an infection that is acquired in a healthcare setting. In this case, a UTI acquired during a catheterization procedure is a classic example of a nosocomial infection. Catheterization involves the insertion of a tube into the urinary tract, which can introduce bacteria into the urinary system and lead to an infection. Nosocomial infections are a significant concern in healthcare settings due to the potential for increased morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Let's review the other options: A) The common cold contracted from a family member - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired outside of a healthcare setting. C) A fungal skin infection from contaminated soil - This is not a nosocomial infection as it is acquired from environmental exposure, not in a healthcare setting.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Isotopes of the same element are chemically similar because they have the same number of protons. The number of protons in an atom determines its atomic number, which is the defining characteristic of an element. Since chemical reactions primarily involve interactions between the electrons of atoms, having the same number of protons means the atoms have the same basic chemical properties. While isotopes may differ in the number of neutrons, it is the number of protons that dictates the element's identity and chemical behavior. Therefore, choice A is correct because the number of protons directly influences an element's chemical properties, making isotopes of the same element chemically similar despite potentially having different numbers of neutrons. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because isotopes of the same element can have different numbers of electrons, their chemical properties are not identical due to potential differences in neutron numbers, and although they may have similarities in electron configurations, it is the number of protons that is the key factor determining chemical behavior.