HESI A2 Biology Practice Test

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because water's polarity leads to hydrogen bonding, high specific heat value, and versatile solvent properties. Polarity in water results from its unequal sharing of electrons between hydrogen and oxygen atoms, creating a partial positive and negative charge. This polarity allows water molecules to form hydrogen bonds, which contribute to its high specific heat value, meaning water can absorb and release heat without drastic temperature changes. Additionally, water's polarity enables it to act as a versatile solvent, dissolving many substances. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they mention incorrect types of bonding and specific heat values that do not align with water's characteristics.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Bacteria. Eukaryotic cells have a defined nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, which bacteria lack. Dogs, humans, and onions are all multicellular organisms that possess eukaryotic cells. Bacteria, being prokaryotic, do not have a distinct nucleus or membrane-bound organelles, leading to the conclusion that they do not have eukaryotic cells.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: To focus an image using a compound microscope, adjusting the fine adjustment is correct as it allows for precise focusing when switching magnifications. Coarse adjustment is only used initially to bring the specimen into view, while the stage adjustment is used to center the specimen. Therefore, B is correct as it ensures clear and sharp image focus without unnecessary readjustments. Choices A and C are incorrect as they do not address the specific need for precise focusing when changing magnifications, leading to potential blurriness or loss of focus in the image.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because of osmosis. Saltwater has a higher concentration of solute than the egg, causing water to move out of the egg, leading to shrinkage. A is incorrect as the egg will lose water, not expand. C is incorrect as there will be a change due to osmosis. D is incorrect as an effect will occur.