TEAS 7 Science Practice Test

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: ganglion. Ganglion is a dense, interconnected mass of nerve cells located outside the central nervous system. They are clusters of cell bodies of neurons and are involved in processing sensory information. Explanation: 1. Ganglion is a cluster of nerve cell bodies located outside the central nervous system. 2. Dendrites are extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. 3. Cranial nerves are nerves that emerge from the brain and brainstem. 4. Pons is a part of the brainstem involved in relaying signals between different areas of the brain. In summary, ganglion is the correct answer because it specifically refers to a mass of nerve cells outside the central nervous system, while the other choices do not fit this description.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: mRNA. mRNA (messenger RNA) contains the code for making a protein through a process called translation. mRNA is transcribed from DNA in the nucleus and carries the genetic information to the ribosomes where protein synthesis occurs. tRNA (choice B) brings amino acids to the ribosome, rRNA (choice C) is a component of the ribosome, and DNA polymerase (choice D) is involved in DNA replication, not protein synthesis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: make observations. This is the initial step of the scientific method because it involves gathering information about a phenomenon or problem. Observations help in identifying patterns, trends, and potential areas for investigation. Forming a hypothesis (A) comes after making observations, as it is a proposed explanation based on those observations. Analyzing data (C) and forming a question (D) also follow after making observations. Making observations is crucial as it sets the foundation for the rest of the scientific method process.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: synapse. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons. The synapse is the gap between neurons where these chemical messages are transmitted. Schwann cells are responsible for myelinating axons, ganglion is a cluster of nerve cell bodies, and the axon is the part of a neuron that carries the signal away from the cell body. Therefore, the synapse is the structure specifically involved in transmitting neurotransmitters between neurons.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the pyloric sphincter is to regulate the movement of food material from the stomach to the duodenum. This is crucial for proper digestion as it controls the release of partially digested food into the small intestine for further processing. Choices B and D are incorrect because the pyloric sphincter does not neutralize stomach acid or begin the process of chemical digestion; those functions are carried out by other parts of the digestive system. Choice C is incorrect as preventing digested food materials and stomach acid from entering the esophagus is the primary role of the lower esophageal sphincter, not the pyloric sphincter.