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: Epithelial tissue is primarily found lining the organs, such as the skin, digestive tract, and respiratory tract. This tissue serves as a protective barrier and aids in absorption and secretion. The other choices, heart muscle, tendons, and spinal cord, are not locations where epithelial tissue is typically found. Heart muscle is cardiac muscle tissue, tendons are composed of dense regular connective tissue, and the spinal cord consists of nervous tissue. Therefore, the correct answer is A, organ lining, as it aligns with the typical locations of epithelial tissue in the body.

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.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because mitosis is essential for the growth and repair of body tissues. During mitosis, a cell divides to produce two identical daughter cells with the same genetic information as the parent cell. This process is crucial for replacing damaged or dead cells, allowing for growth and tissue repair. A is incorrect because mitosis does not involve the fusion of male and female gametes, which is a process called fertilization. B is incorrect because mitosis actually maintains genetic consistency within a species by producing genetically identical cells. C is incorrect because mitosis typically produces cells that are very similar to the parent cell, ensuring the preservation of genetic information and function.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because all the choices - the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland, and the adrenal glands - are indeed components of the endocrine system. Each of these glands secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream to regulate various bodily functions. The pituitary gland controls other endocrine glands, the thyroid gland regulates metabolism, and the adrenal glands manage stress responses. Therefore, all of these glands play vital roles in the endocrine system. The other choices (A, B, C) are incorrect because they are all components of the endocrine system.