HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The nucleus. DNA is stored in the nucleus of a cell because it contains the genetic material that carries instructions for the cell's functions. The nucleus is specifically designed to protect and regulate access to the DNA. Ribosomes (B) are responsible for protein synthesis, not DNA storage. Endoplasmic reticulum (C) is involved in protein and lipid synthesis, but not DNA storage. Mitochondria (D) have their own DNA, but the majority of the cell's DNA is stored in the nucleus.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Epithelial cells are correct to be classified as polarized because they have distinct apical and basal surfaces. The apical surface faces the external environment or a body cavity, while the basal surface is anchored to the underlying connective tissue. This polarity is essential for the specialized functions of epithelial cells, such as absorption, secretion, and transportation. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer. Choices B and C are incorrect because epithelial cells are not neutral and are not necessarily larger than other cells. Choice D is incorrect because epithelial cells do have unique characteristics that differentiate them from other cell types.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because all the statements mentioned in choices A, B, and C are true. A: The respiratory system consists of all organs involved in breathing, including the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. B: Organs included in the respiratory system are the nose, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and lungs. C: The respiratory system conveys oxygen into our bodies and removes carbon dioxide from our bodies. Therefore, as all three statements are true, the correct answer is D - All of the Above. The other choices are incorrect because they do not encompass all the organs involved in the respiratory system or the functions it performs.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the nucleus stores the cell's genetic material, DNA, which contains instructions for cell function and growth. This is crucial for cell division, protein synthesis, and overall cell activities. Choice B is incorrect because the nucleus does not provide structural support to the cell. Choice C is incorrect as protein synthesis primarily occurs in the ribosomes. Choice D is incorrect as energy production from food takes place in the mitochondria, not the nucleus.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: species. Within the biological hierarchical system, species is the least inclusive category. A species consists of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Moving up the hierarchy, species are grouped into genera, then families, orders, classes, phyla, and finally kingdoms. Phylum (A), order (B), and kingdom (C) are all more inclusive categories than species. Phylum includes multiple classes, order includes multiple families, and kingdom includes multiple phyla. Therefore, species is the least inclusive category within this system.