Which of the following describes the process of osmosis?
Movement of substances from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration.
Movement of substances against a concentration gradient with the help of transport proteins.
Movement of water molecules from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration through a selectively permeable membrane.
Movement of substances into a cell by engulfing them with the plasma membrane.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Movement of substances from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration describes simple diffusion, not osmosis. Simple diffusion involves the passive movement of molecules (other than water) down their concentration gradient, directly across the cell membrane. This process doesn't require energy and isn't specific to water molecules. Substances like gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) and small, nonpolar molecules often move in this way to reach equilibrium.
Choice B reason: Movement of substances against a concentration gradient with the help of transport proteins defines active transport, not osmosis. Active transport requires energy, typically in the form of ATP, to move molecules from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration. This is the opposite of passive processes like diffusion and osmosis. Examples include the sodium-potassium pump that maintains the electrochemical gradient in nerve cells, and the transport of glucose into cells of the intestines and kidneys.
Choice C reason: This is the correct description of osmosis. Osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules
through a selectively permeable membrane. The membrane allows water molecules to pass through while preventing the movement of solutes (like salts and sugars) to maintain a balance of water on both sides of the membrane. This process is crucial for maintaining cell turgor in plants, regulating fluid balance in tissues and organs, and facilitating nutrient absorption and waste removal in all living organisms. Osmosis is a vital physiological process because it helps cells maintain their shape and function by controlling internal water balance.
Choice D reason: Movement of substances into a cell by engulfing them with the plasma membrane is known as endocytosis, not osmosis. Endocytosis is an active process where cells internalize large particles, such as nutrients and pathogens, by engulfing them with the cell membrane to form a vesicle. There are two main types of endocytosis: phagocytosis ("cell eating") for large particles like bacteria, and pinocytosis ("cell drinking") for fluids and small molecules. This process requires energy and is used by cells to intake essential nutrients, clear away debris, and defend against pathogens.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The vertebral column, also known as the spine or spinal column, is a series of bones called vertebrae that extend from the skull to the pelvis. It provides support for the body and protects the spinal cord. The five regions of the vertebral column, starting from the top and moving downwards, are:
- Cervical: This region is made up of seven vertebrae and is located in the neck. The first two cervical vertebrae, the atlas, and the axis are specialized to allow for head movement.
- Thoracic: This region is made up of twelve vertebrae and is located in the upper and middle back. The thoracic vertebrae are larger than the cervical vertebrae and articulate with the ribs.
- Lumbar: This region is made up of five vertebrae and is located in the lower back. The lumbar vertebrae are the largest and strongest of the vertebrae.
- Sacral: This region is made up of five fused vertebrae and is located in the pelvis. The sacrum forms the posterior wall of the pelvis and articulates with the hip bones.
- Coccygeal: This region is made up of four fused vertebrae and is located at the base of the vertebral column. The coccyx, or tailbone, provides attachment points for muscles and ligaments.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The data collected by the researcher on the number of cars passing through a busy intersection at different times of the day for a month would be most useful for analyzing traffic patterns during rush hour.
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