HESI A2 Biology 2024

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pistil. The ovary is the female reproductive part of a flower, and it is located within the pistil. The pistil consists of three main parts: the stigma, style, and ovary. The ovary is the swollen base of the pistil that contains ovules, which develop into seeds after fertilization. A: Anther is the male reproductive part of a flower, responsible for producing and releasing pollen. C: Stamen is the male reproductive organ of a flower, consisting of the anther and filament. D: Calyx is the outermost whorl of a flower, consisting of sepals that protect the flower bud.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Centriole. Centrioles are cylindrical structures found in animal cells that play a key role in cell division by organizing microtubules of the mitotic spindle. Plant cells lack centrioles and instead use their microtubule organizing centers for cell division. B: Cytoplasm is incorrect as it is a universal component of all cells, including both animal and plant cells. C: Vacuole is incorrect as it is a large, membrane-bound organelle present in plant cells for storage, structure, and support. D: Golgi apparatus is incorrect as it is present in both animal and plant cells and is responsible for packaging and processing proteins for secretion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: During anaphase, the correct answer is A because it is the phase where chromosomes move to opposite ends of the spindle. This separation ensures that each new cell receives a complete set of chromosomes. Choice B is incorrect because nuclear membrane and nucleoli disintegrate during prophase, not anaphase. Choice C is incorrect as chromatids line up at the center of the spindle during metaphase. Choice D is incorrect as the nuclear membrane and nucleoli do not form during anaphase but rather re-form during telophase.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cow. Cows are ruminant animals, meaning they have a complex digestive system that requires a lot of energy to break down cellulose from grass. This process is less energy-efficient compared to the digestive systems of other animals like caterpillars, coyotes, and crickets. Caterpillars have efficient digestion due to their specialized enzymes, coyotes are carnivores with more efficient nutrient absorption, and crickets have simpler digestive systems. Therefore, the cow would have the least energy efficiency in nutrient consumption among the options provided.