ATI TEAS Science Practice Test

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Bonding electrons are shared between two or more atoms.' This statement is unique to covalent bonds. In covalent bonds, atoms share electrons to achieve a stable electron configuration, which leads to the formation of a bond. This sharing of electrons is a fundamental characteristic of covalent bonds and distinguishes them from other types of chemical bonds, such as ionic bonds, where electrons are transferred rather than shared. Choices A, B, and D do not represent unique characteristics of covalent bonds. Choice A describes some common elements involved in covalent bonds, choice B refers to the concept of dipoles, which can also exist in other types of bonds, and choice D describes a property of molecules (crystalline solid structure) that is not exclusive to covalent bonds.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, Oligodendrocytes. Oligodendrocytes are responsible for myelinating neurons in the central nervous system (CNS). Schwann cells, found in the peripheral nervous system, are responsible for myelinating neurons there. Astrocytes support and maintain the neuronal environment, while microglia function as immune cells in the CNS, participating in immune responses and cellular debris clearance. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect for myelination of CNS neurons.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Human cells typically contain genes that code for proteins necessary for the cell's functions. DNA that codes for proteins the cell doesn't use would be an inefficient use of the cell's resources. Therefore, it is less likely to be found in a human cell's genes. Options A, B, and C are more commonly associated with genes found in human cells. Choice A refers to the genetic information needed for protein synthesis, while choice B involves traits that can be present in the gene pool. Mutated DNA (choice C) can also be found in human cells as a result of genetic alterations. However, DNA that codes for proteins not utilized by the cell would be redundant and not typically retained in the genome.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Glial cells in the CNS include astrocytes, microglia, ependymal cells, and oligodendrocytes. Schwann cells and satellite cells are found in the PNS. Astrocytes are the most abundant type of glial cells and are involved in nutrient support, repair, and maintenance of the extracellular environment. Microglia are the resident immune cells of the CNS, playing a role in immune defense. Ependymal cells line the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord, contributing to the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. Oligodendrocytes are responsible for producing myelin, which insulates axons in the CNS. Understanding the specific functions of each type of glial cell is essential in grasping the complexity of the central nervous system's support and protective mechanisms.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The motor pathways of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are organized with two neurons: a pre-ganglionic neuron that transmits the signal from the central nervous system (CNS) to a ganglion, and a post-ganglionic neuron that conveys the signal from the ganglion to the target organ. This dual-neuron pathway enables the integration and modulation of signals before reaching the target organ, allowing for a more sophisticated and adaptable control system. Choice A is incorrect as it describes a single neuron pathway, which is not characteristic of ANS motor pathways. Choice C is incorrect as it suggests multiple neurons from the CNS to the target organ, which is not the typical arrangement. Choice D is incorrect as it describes a single neuron pathway from the CNS to peripheral ganglia, which does not account for the ganglionic transmission in ANS motor pathways.