TEAS 7 science practice questions

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These alterations can lead to modifications in the genetic information carried by an organism, resulting in effects that can range from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations play a crucial role in genetic diversity and evolution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define what a mutation is. Option B is incorrect because mutations are not a type of protein but rather changes in DNA. Option C is incorrect because while mutations can occur during DNA replication, they are not considered a 'normal' part of the process as they can lead to genetic variations. Option D is incorrect because mutations can have a wide range of effects and are not always harmless variations.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The mass number of an element represents the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. This information is crucial for determining the atomic mass of the element and understanding its stability and isotopes. The number of protons in the nucleus (option A) is represented by the atomic number, not the mass number. The number of electrons in the valence shell (option C) is related to the element's position in the periodic table and its chemical properties, but it is not directly determined by the mass number. The element's chemical reactivity (option D) is influenced by the number and arrangement of electrons in the atom's energy levels, not by the mass number.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which specifically targets carbohydrates and breaks them down into smaller molecules like sugars. Pepsin, choice A, is an enzyme found in the stomach that breaks down proteins, not carbohydrates. Lipase, choice C, is responsible for breaking down fats, not carbohydrates. Trypsin, choice D, is an enzyme that breaks down proteins in the small intestine, not carbohydrates. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect for this question.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The shift in the peppered moth population towards more dark moths in England after the Industrial Revolution exemplifies natural selection acting on pre-existing variation. Initially, light-colored moths were well-camouflaged against lichen-covered tree trunks, but with industrial pollution darkening the tree trunks, dark-colored moths gained a survival advantage. This change reflects how the environment favored dark moths over light ones, illustrating natural selection. The process illustrates how organisms with traits advantageous in a changing environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, leading to the prevalence of those traits in the population over time. The choices of artificial selection (A), punctuated equilibrium (C), and Lamarckism (D) are not applicable in this scenario. Artificial selection involves intentional breeding by humans, punctuated equilibrium refers to rapid bursts of evolution followed by periods of stability, and Lamarckism suggests the inheritance of acquired characteristics, none of which align with the observed shift in moth populations based on environmental changes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When a rubber band is stretched, it stores potential energy due to its position or configuration. This potential energy can be converted into kinetic energy when the rubber band is released and returns to its original shape. Therefore, the correct answer is potential energy, as the energy is stored in the stretched rubber band and can be released upon returning to its original state. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because kinetic energy is associated with motion, thermal energy is related to heat, and mechanical energy is a broader category that includes both potential and kinetic energy.