Practice Test Missed Questions - Kaplan #9

Sucrose can also be referred to by which of the following names? I. alpha-D-Glucopyranosyl beta-D-fructofuranoside II. alpha-D-Glucofuranosyl beta-D-fructopyranoside III. beta-D-Fructofuranosyl alpha-D-glucopyranoside IV. alpha-D-Fructofuranosyl beta-D-glucopyranoside A. I only B. I and III only C. II and III only D. II and IV only (Chem/Phys, Question #33)

B. I and III only First, evaluate based on the number of substituents in the ring. Glucose is a 6-membered ring -- a "pyran" Fructose is a 5-membered ring -- a "furan" Eliminate anything with II (says glucose is a "furan" -- incorrect) -- (C)/(D) incorrect. Next -- look at alpha and beta designations. The glucoside has an alpha linkage; the fructoside has a beta linkage. Why missed? Ran out of time. Would have gotten down to 50/50 by eliminating based on the ring size, but would have gotten stuck on the alpha/beta designation. alpha -- hydroxy group on the anomeric carbon points down beta -- hydroxy group on the anomeric carbon points up (CONTENT!)

Which of the following is NOT true of the compound shown below? A. Its IUPAC name is ethanoic anhydride B. It easily forms an aqueous solution C. It is a highly reactive compound D. It is formed via dehydration (Chem/Phys, Question #46)

B. It easily forms an aqueous solution Acid anhydrides are formed via removal of water (D) (from two molecules of carboxylic acid); they are highly reactive (C); and are named after the carboxylic acid that was used as a reactant -- ehtanoic acid was used, so ethanoic anhydride is the correct name (A). BUT -- acid anhydrides are not soluble in water -- due to their high reactivity, upon coming into contact w/ water they reform the original carboxylic acid Why missed? Got hung up on the IUPAC name -- knew that anhydrides would quickly go back to carboxylic acids b/c they are so reactive. Should have used this to determine that (B) was correct -- because they will not be soluble in water, and instead just turn back to carboxylic acids. If they aren't soluble / stable in water, they cannot form an aqueous solution. (REASOINING!)

When titanium is used in an artificial hip replacement, how does acidosis affect the metal? A. It induces the breakdown of TiCl4 B. It has no large-scale effect on the metal C. It induces the formation of TiO2 D. It induces the formation of TiBr4 (Chem/Phys, Question #40)

B. It has no large-scale effect on the metal Passage states that titanium is inert -- so B would be the correct answer. Also -- physiological acidosis is relatively basic -- although there may be local extremes. Why missed? Did not refer to the passage wording/explanation. I had highlighted the appropriate evidence to answer this question -- but did not use it. Tried to use the reactions and Le Chatelier's Principle instead -- but not really applicable to this situation. (MISSING PROOF! READING!)

In an attempt to understand the properties of arterial blood flow, scientists measure the volume of fluid displaced along the artery in Figure 1 as a function of time. How do the volume displacements per second at points A, B, and C compare to each other? A. They are greater at point A than at points B and C. B. They are the same at points A, B, and C. C. They are greater at points A and B than at point C. D. They are greater at point C than at points A and B. (Chem/Phys, Question #15)

B. They are the same at points A, B, and C. The continuity equation (A1v1 = A2v2) assumes that volume displaced per second is the same at the points being evaluated. This allows the continuity equation to be true, because it adjusts area or velocity accordingly to ensure constant volume displacement per time. Why missed? Did not consider the definition and requirements of the continuity equation. (APPLICATION! UNDERSTANDING!)

Suppose Welles had written in a letter to Charlie Chaplin, "My real breakthrough with motion pictures came when I returned to the spontaneity that came so naturally to me when I first began acting." What effect would this have on the passage? (CARS, Question #41)

Strengthen/Weaken Beyond (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Needed to go back to the passage to find Welles' way of performing on film. From here -- would have found that he had a very precise need to be accurate in hitting his marks. If his letter says that he had a breakthrough when he followed his spontaneity -- this would be directly opposite of what was stated in the passage (that he had to be precise) -- this would therefore contradict the author's characterization of Welles'. (MISSING PROOF!) (MISUNDERSTANDING!)

Suppose researchers discovered the manuscript for an 1841 musical theater act to be performed on Mississippi River steamboats, and further study reveals it to be written by abolitionists as an anti-slavery message. What effect would this discovery have on conclusions drawn in the passage? (CARS, Question #13)

Strengthen/Weaken Beyond (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Needed to go back to the passage where "1841" was mentioned to find relevant information. Here I would have found the author's opinion that many factors influenced the origins of musical theater. Picked an incorrect answer choice that was too limited, and a faulty use of detail / distortion. (REPHRASING!) (MISSING PROOF!) (MISSING PREDICTION!)

Which of the following evolutionary explanations for the existence of altruism in humans, if true, would pose the greatest challenge to the selfish gene theory? (CARS, Question #50)

Strengthen/Weaken Beyond (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) First -- define selfish gene theory. Selfish gene theory: if a heritable trait decreases survival and/or reproductive fitness without providing some compensatory advantage, the gene will be selected against and eventually disappear from the population. This theory acts on the level of genes. Next -- define altruism in humans. Altruism: behavior that results in a disadvantage to the actor and an advantage to at least one other individual. Must find something that does NOT align w/ gene theory. (D) ends up being this answer choice b/c it does NOT speak about evolution in terms of genes, but rather in terms of evolution at the level of human groups. (REPHRASING!)

Which of the following compounds has the most stable conjugate base? A. HOOC-CH2Cl B. HOOC-CH2OCH3 C. HOOC-CH2F D. HOOC-CH3 (Chem/Phys, Question #10)

C. HOOC-CH2F Although the question stem seems to be asking for the most stable conjugate base -- it's really asking for the strongest acid. The more stable the conjugate base -- the stronger the acid. The acid strength is increased by the inductive effect of electron withdrawing groups on neighboring carbon atoms. Fluorine is more electronegative than Chlorine -- the only other EWG in the answer choices. It will have the most inductive effect -- so will make the alpha hydrogen most (+) and therefore most acidic. Because the alpha hydrogen wants to be taken, the conjugate base is more stable. Why missed? Was thinking about Cl vs. F in terms of leaving group and size for stabilization of charge. This was incorrect application of that knowledge (APPLICATION!) Should have instead looked at the electronegativity only -- F is pulling more on the electrons in the alpha H than Cl will, so it will be more acidic. (REASONING!)

Which of the following is best supported by the information in Table 1? A. Witnessing conversations influenced behavior more than witnessing no conversation. B. Observational learning is more likely to influence action in a social situation than non-action. C. Witnessing lack of interaction is a less powerful behavior modifier than witnessing a negative interaction. D. Vicarious experiences can influence immediate behavior for those in similar circumstances. (Psych/Soc, Question #16)

D. Vicarious experiences can influence immediate behavior for those in similar circumstances. Correct answer choice will relate directly to the table. Seeing a (+) interaction was more likely to lead to similar behavior -- seeing a (-) reaction discouraged similar behavior. Thus, vicarious experiences are a legitimate answer. Why missed? Mis-analyzed the table. A, B, and C are all contradicted by the table. Needed to rephrase the answer choices. (ANALYSIS!) (REPHRASING!)

The open-chain structures of D-glucose and D-fructose are shown below: D-glucose and D-fructose are most precisely characterized as: A. anomers B. diastereomers C. epimers D. constitutional isomers (Bio/Biochem, Question #48)

D. constitutional isomers When evaluating classification for isomers ask... - Do they have the same connectivity? --> in this case no -- so they must be structural isomers. Constitutional isomers: structural isomers; isomers with the same molecular formula, but different connectivity. Why missed? Forgot the term for structural isomers (constitutional isomers) and forgot what diastereomers are (differ at at least one chiral center, same at at least one chiral center). (CONTENT!) (DEFINITION CLARIFICATION!)

Why is MCAD deficiency more likely to appear earlier (as soon as a few days after birth) in breastfed infants? Initially, breastfed infants receive a: A. larger supply of medium chain fatty acids than bottle fed infants B. smaller supply of medium chain fatty acids than bottle fed infants C. larger number of carbohydrate calories than bottle fed infants D. smaller number of carbohydrate calories than bottle fed infants (Bio/Biochem, Question #25)

D. smaller number of carbohydrate calories than bottle-fed infants Initial period of breastfeeding occurs BEFORE milk let-down in women. Therefore -- the infant is receiving a limited amount of calories from colostrum, mostly consisting of protein. In bottle-fed infants, there is immediate consumption of a higher calorie, higher carbohydrate diet. Bottle-fed baby diet is consistent with the MCAD deficiency treatment -- therefore preventing symptoms in these infants. Additionally -- a switch to fat metabolism would trigger the use of the MCAD enzyme -- and a low carbohydrate load would facilitate that switch by activating glucagon and other hormones. **fatty acid length has no contribution to MCAD deficiency symptoms -- b/c the fatty acids will not be broken down. Why missed? Misused a piece of information. Saw fatty acid oxidation mentioned -- but this was not in relation to MCAD directly. Was only in the passage as an example of a similarly presenting disorder. From recognizing that -- could have eliminated A and B. From there -- needed to rephrase in thinking -- Does MCAD deficiency show in those with higher or lower energy available? From there -- correct answer would be obvious. (FAULTY USE OF DETAIL!) (STRATEGY!)

According to the passage, each of the following contributed to the establishment of the American musical EXCEPT: (CARS, Question #16)

Detail (Foundations of Comprehension) Why missed? Looked too sporadically through the text. Needed to rephrase and think -- where does the passage speak about the establishment / origin of the American musical? Then -- once finding this portion -- whatever is NOT mentioned here would be the correct answer (jazz is mentioned later -- so not a contributer, and thus the correct answer) (STRATEGY!) (MISSING PROOF!)

According to the author, the existence of anonymous donations to charity can best be explained by: (CARS, Question #53)

Detail (Foundations of Comprehension) Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Needed to find the specific portion of the passage where this is mentioned -- once finding this I would have seen that Darwin's evolutionary theory does NOT explain this. Therefore something else must explain it (other than human evolution). (MISSING PROOF!)

Which of the following claims are made in the passage but not supported by evidence or examples? (CARS, Question #51)

Detail (Foundations of Comprehension) Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Needed to go to the passage to find proof. (MISSING PROOF!)

The author's discussion of Mozart's Piano Sonata No. 16 serves which of the following functions in the passage? (CARS, Question #18)

Function (Reasoning Within the Text) Why missed? Chose an opposite answer choice. Needed to isolate the fact that the mention of the sonata was an exception to the rule mentioned earlier in the paragraph. Because it is an exception to the rule, it doesn't support the description previously but rather digresses from that main point. This leads to the correct answer choice. (REPHRASING!) (MISSING PROOF!) (MISUNDERSTANDING!)

The author most likely mentions Oh, Kay! in paragraph 4 in order to: (CARS, Question #15)

Function (Reasoning Within the Text) Why missed? Misinterpreted the sentence after -- this was not referring to Oh, Kay! -- it was referring to a different musical. (UNDERSTANDING!) Should have looked at the function of the paragraph -- then looked at what the mention of oh, Kay! was doing to support the paragraph.

The "bad check" example (paragraph 7) from Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech is used to support the claim that late 1960s social movements: (CARS, Question #24)

Function (Reasoning Within the Text) Why missed? Needed to approach this with a function strategy. Given the example/evidence -- need to find the claim. Should have simply found the evidence in the passage and gone back a few sentences to see what claim it was supporting. There I would have seen that an earlier statement was made that 1960s social movements were based on dominant culture values. (STRATEGY!)

It can be inferred from the passage that Welles: (CARS, Question #39)

Inference (Foundations of Comprehension) Why missed? Needed to find proof that MUST make the inference true. Selected an answer choice that does not have a definitive conclusion or support from the passage. (MISSING PROOF!) Correct answer choice is found by investigating the specific portion that mentions Citizen Kane. Mentioned earlier that musical comedy was more difficult -- Citizen Kane was directed in this such way -- so therefore must have been directed in a more difficult manner.

Which of the following best characterizes the main idea from the passage? (CARS, Question #40)

Main Idea (Foundations of Comprehension) Why missed? Selected a faulty use of detail answer choice. The answer selected was mentioned in the passage, but only at the end, so therefore could not be the main idea. The passage discusses Welles' troubles directing himself on film throughout the passage -- also contrasts are constantly made between film vs. stage direction.

The data in Table 1 indicates which of the following? A. A greater positive correlation between the presence of emotion and perception of anger in the home than in the office B. A greater expectation of the presence of emotion in conversations occurring in the home than those in the office C. A smaller expectation of women in the workplace to demonstrate emotion than men in the workplace D. A greater positive correlation between the presence of emotion and perception of anger in women than in men (Psych/Soc, Question #42)

B. A greater expectation of the presence of emotion in conversations occurring in the home than those in the office (B) is the only claim that can be inferred. Identical conversations lacking emotion indicated anger at a much higher rate at the home than at the office -- so participants would have expected more emotion in a home conversation. Why missed? Got the relationship backward. Selected (A) which says there's a greater (+) correelation between presence of emotion and perception of anger. BUT this relationship is actually reversed -- a greater LACK of emotion = a greater perception of anger. (DATA ANALYSIS!) (UNDERSTANDING!)

What is the ∆H for Reaction 1? A. +2801.3 kJ/mol B. -2801.3 kJ/mol C. +5350.3 kJ/mol D. -5350.3 kJ/mol (Chem/Phys, Question #24)

A. +2801.3 kJ/mol To solve -- use the formula for ∆H of a reaction: ∆H = Hf(products) - Hf(reactants) Plugging in values from Table 1: H = [Hf(glucose) + 6*Hf(O2)] - [6*Hf(CO2) + 6*Hf(H2O) = [-1300 + 0] - [6(-400) + 6(-300)] = -1300 - (-2400 + -1800) = -1300 + 2400 + 1800 = + 2900 Why missed? Knew the equation and how to set it up, but miscalculated the math with the signs. Miscalculation. (CALCULATION!)

According to the Demographic Transition model, at which point in the chart above would a society expect to see the lowest population? A. A B. B C. C D. D (Psych/Soc, Question #30)

A. A The Demographic Transition model tracks birth and death rate as a country undergoes a shift from a pre-industrial to an industrial economy. Throughout the transition, population within the society increases steadily. Therefore, the lowest population should occur at the beginning of the chart. Why missed? Did not know that over the course of Demographic Transition the population as a whole increases steadily. Was basing it off deduction from the graph, which was incorrect. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following is NOT a likely contributor to the link between addiction and heredity, as described in the passage? A. Adaptive value of behaviors B. Regulatory genes C. Observational learning D. Social modeling (Psych/Soc, Question #36)

A. Adaptive value of behaviors (B) is INCORRECT -- it will be a potential link, as genes are hereditary and regulatory genes are often different in addicts. (C) is INCORRECT -- observational learning could be a contributing factor, because a child of an addict would most likely observe the behavior of the addict parent. (D) is INCORRECT -- social modeling could be a contributing factor. If children learn tby watching their parents, then this modeling could extend to addiction. Adaptive value of behaviors would NOT be a contributor. Substance abuse has a NEGATIVE adaptive value (it hurts the person!) Why missed? Did not think about this rationally. Adaptive value means the usefulness of a trait that can help an organism to survive in its environment. Substance abuse does not help an organism to survive -- so it cannot be correct. Got too hung up on the definitions / presence in the passage. (LOGIC!) (REASONING!)

Partial hydrolysis of a heptapeptide yields the fragments Val-Gly-Pro, Pro-Ala-Gly, Ala-Val, and Gly-Gly. What is the primary sequence of the protein? A. Ala-Val-Gly-Pro-Ala-Gly-Gly B. Gly-Gly-Ala-Pro-Gly-Val-Ala C. Ala-Val-Gly-Gly-Pro-Ala-Gly D. Gly-Ala-Pro-Gly-Gly-Val-Ala (Chem/Phys, Question #59)

A. Ala-Val-Gly-Pro-Ala-Gly-Gly This method of determining primary amino acid sequence relies on the partial overlap between the fragments produced by partial hydrolysis. We can rearrange the fragments with their overlapping portions to get the correct sequence. Why missed? Did not know this method. Need to arrange the fragments so they overlap -- then the overlapping ones are reduced to a single set of it. (CONTENT!)

In an experiment to determine the efficiency of a new assistive device for seniors, a kinesiologist sets up an experiment with several weights and pulleys. When he calibrates the scale it registers each weight as three kilograms greater than it actually is. What impact does this have on the experiment? A. The efficiency will be most skewed for the smallest weights B. The efficiency will be skewed equally for all weights C. The efficiency will be least skewed for the smallest weights D. The constant difference will not skew the efficiency measures (Chem/Phys, Question #25)

A. The efficiency will be most skewed for the smallest weights Efficiency equation: Efficiency = (load x load distance) / (effort x effort distance) If the weights (load) were HIGH but the effort was measured accurately, efficiency measures would be erroneously calculated as HIGHER than actual efficiency. Since efficiency is DIRECTLY proportional to load -- error in efficiency (%) is DIRECTLY proportional to error in load (%). The error in load (%) = absolute error / actual load. As the actual load decreases, the percent error increases. Why missed? Considered this question in terms of systematic error -- but need to consider what the error actually is here, and what it affects. Error is going to affect different weights differently because the weight is a component of measuring the efficiency -- it is not the end measurement itself. (UNDERSTANDING! APPLICATION!) Needed to set up the equations for efficiency to see how error would affect the outcome. Did not know the equation for efficiency for pulleys. (CONTENT!)

In the experiment, what would happen if only part of the reaction mixture was transferred to the volumetric flask? A. The observed rotation would decrease and the specific rotation would remain the same. B. The observed rotation and the specific rotation would both decrease. C. The observed rotation and the specific rotation would both increase. D. The observed rotation would increase and the specific rotation would remain the same. (Chem/Phys, Question #30)

A. The observed rotation would decrease and the specific rotation would remain the same. This question requires familiarity with the equation for specific rotation: specific rotation = (observed rotation) / (concentration of the solution x length of the tube) If we transfer only a portion of the mixture -- concentration of solution would go down. Observed rotation will decrease since concentration of solution decreased. Since both decrease -- specific rotation stays the same. Why misunderstood? Got this right from logic -- but should have known the formula. (CONTENT!)

Researchers have bred a line of "knockout mice" where the function of a single gene has been made inoperative. They discover that the test subjects are missing 6 different proteins that are found in wild type mice. What might account for this difference? A. The primary transcript that is normally derived from the "knockout gene" can be processed six different ways by nuclear spliceosomes. B. The polypeptide that is derived from the "knockout" gene can take on six different tertiary structures affecting its functionality. C. Degeneracy within the genetic code allows a single codon to translate multiple amino acids yielding six different proteins form the "knockout" gene. D. Multiple different start codons within the single "knockout" gene allow for the processing of six different primary transcripts. (Bio/Biochem, Question #29)

A. The primary transcript that is normally derived from the "knockout gene" can be processed six different ways by nuclear spliceosomes. (A) is CORRECT -- Primary transcript can be processed several different ways by nuclear spliceosomes -- this leads to the formation of differing mRNAs and subsequently differing proteins. (B) is INCORRECT -- difference in tertiary structure alone would not account for why / how 6 different proteins were missing (C) is INCORRECT -- this is opposite -- degeneracy means that a single amino acid can be coded for by multiple codons (D) is INCORRECT -- transcription of a specific gene will always result in the same primary transcript (pre-mRNA). Why missed? Missed a wrong part of the answer choice (the different "primary transcripts" -- which is not possible). (READING!) Also -- did not know that proteins and their primary transcript can be processed in several different ways by nuclear spliceosomes. (CONTENT!)

A participant in the group that consumed >=3 drinks believed that the encounter with his acquaintance was mutually pleasant. However, the acquaintance found the meeting quite unpleasant. It's likely that the participant had which of the following impaired by alcohol? A. Working memory B. Sensory memory C. Implicit memory D. Iconic Memory (Psych/Soc, Question #3)

A. Working memory Working memory is involved in reasoning and comprehension. The breakdown in working memory prevents the brain from properly processing information -- this could lead one to reach incorrect conclusions. This is the scenario occuring in the question stem -- so working memory is the best answer. Sensory memory pertains only to memories of sensory information and is NOT involved in reaasoning or comprehension. Iconic memory is a subset of sensory memory (sight). Implicit memory is the unconscious memory of skills and conditioned responses. Why missed? Did not remember the definition of iconic memory. Was in between A and D. Had I known iconic memory was a type of sensory memory -- would have gotten to right answer. (CONTENT!)

Suppose that all people over 65 created a social movement whose method of action was to form a political party. What can be concluded based on the information in the passage? (CARS, Question #28)

Apply (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Based on the question stem -- we need to look for membership and methods support from the passage. Membership is age based -- NOT class based. This aligns with post-1960s movements. Method relies on institutional methods of change (political parties) -- this aligns with pre-1960s movement which also relies on institutional methods of change. (REPHRASING!) (MISSING PROOF!)

If the claims made in the passage are correct, how would politicians on the political right be expected to react to America's program to protect endangered species from extinction? (CARS, Question #11)

Apply (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Did not know the definition of "extol". Extol means to praise enthusiastically. If I had known the definition of this word -- I would have eliminated A and B. From here -- can eliminate D b/c the program has been successful -- and the right would not be concerned about its success, just about its cost. (DEFINITION!) (STRATEGY!)

The author of the passage would be most likely to agree with which of the following statements? (CARS, Question #2)

Apply (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Had it down to two answers -- picked the wrong answer choice. Needed to use the "denial test" -- go through the answer choices and if they hurt the author's argument when denied, they must be true and therefore the answer choice. (STRATEGY!)

To which of the following hypothetical Congressional actions would the author probably lend the most support, based on the information in the passage? (CARS, Question #12)

Apply (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Needed to NOT read the answer choices first -- needed to make predictions about what the author's principal opinions were about the issue. Once doing this -- A and B could be eliminated b/c political process is not central to his arguments or focus. C would be eliminated b/c it would be opposite of what the author would support / thinks. D would need to be correct b/c it aligns with proof from the passage. (MISSING PROOF!) (MISSING PREDICTION!)

Which of the following acts of altruism is LEAST plausibly explained by one of the theories discussed in the passage? (CARS, Question #52)

Apply (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Ran out of time. (TIMING!) Needed to find the proof in the passage -- the statement was directly there in the last paragraph, so need to find this and make the prediction to match to correct answer. (MISSING PROOF!)

Based on information in the passage, which of the following scenarios would the author consider most analogous to the application of the "new school" view of musical taxonomy (paragraph 2)? (CARS, Question #17)

Apply (Reasoning Beyond the Text) Why missed? Went to the right part of the passage -- but missed the most important aspect! That the new school view was a mixing of genres. This alone would have led to the correct answer choice. (MISSING PROOF!) (MISUNDERSTANDING!)

A hydropathy plot indicates the hydrophilicity (negative values) and hydrophobicity (positive values) of different regions of a protein. According to the hydropathy plot below, how many cellular membrane-spanning regions are likely in this protein? A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4 (Bio/Biochem, Question #14)

B. 2 We need to look for regions of hydrophobicity. Cell membrane has a hydrophobic internal structure -- so hydrophobic regions of proeteins can reside within the membrane. We are looking for membrane-spanning regions, so we need to look for how many hydrophobic regions there are on the graph. There are two peaks of hydrophobic regions -- therefore (B) is correct. Why missed? Looked for the hydrophilic regions instead of the hydrophobic regions. Did this b/c I was considering the polar and non-polar regions -- but even so I should have noticed there needed to be a 1:1 ratio to make that possible (therefore only 2). But the correct thinking would be to reason that the regions spanning the cellular membrane are hydrophobic -- therefore need to look for hydrophobic regions on the graph. (REASONING!) (READING!)

Which of the following proteases will preferentially cleave peptide bonds next to aromatic amino acids? A. Maltase B. Chymotrypsin C. Aminopeptidase C. Carboxypeptidase (Chem/Phys, Question #47)

B. Chymotrypsin Chymotrypsin preferentially cleaves peptide bonds next to large hydrophobic amino acids. Aromatic amino acids are large and hydrophobic -- thus peptide bonds next to these amino acids would be preferentially cleaved by chymotrypsin. (A) is INCORRECT -- Maltase is NOT a protease -- it breaks down the disaccharide maltose. (C) and (D) are INCORRECT -- these enzymes cleave a single amino acid from either side of the protein, and don't act in a preferential manner. Why missed? Did not know the functions of these proteases/enzymes. (CONTENT!) Protease: an enzyme which breaks down proteins and peptides Maltase: enzyme that breaks down the disaccharide maltose into its glucose components Chymotrypsin: serine protease that hydrolyzes peptide bonds of tryptophan (W), leucine (L), tyrosine (Y), and phenylalanine (F); synthesized by the pancreas. Aminopeptidase: enzyme that cleaves a single amino acid from the N-terminus of proteins/peptides. Carboxypeptidase: enzyme that cleaves a single amino acid from the C-terminus of proteins/peptides.

If the hypothesis discussed in the passage is true, which of the following would be the best way for researchers to obtain statistically significant results? A. Conducting several additional statistical analyses of the survey used in the study B. Completing a meta-analysis of other surveys of twins that included African Americans C. Expanding the study to include other traditionally segregated groups D. Eliminating additional outliers from the respondents to the current survey (Psych/Soc, Question #23)

B. Completing a meta-analysis of other surveys of twins that included African Americans Way to increase the statistical significance of a result is to increase the number of data points in the study. (B) is correct b/c it suggests including data points form other surveys. (C) is incorrect b/c those other groups aren't relevant to the study. Why missed? Knew that we needed a bigger sample size -- BUT didn't think of who needed / could be in that bigger sample size. (ANALYSIS!)

Based on the general theory of enzyme action, as described in the passage, the overall rate of the reaction (at all substrate and enzyme concentrations) is proportional to the concentration of: A. substrate B. ES complex C. enzyme D. product (Chem/Phys, Question #35)

B. ES complex The slower step of the reaction is the second reaction -- this is the rate determining step. Therefore -- the overall reaction rate will be proportional to the reactant of the second step -- this is ES. So reaction rate is proportional to the concentration of the ES complex. Why missed? Did not apply the different steps of the reaction and the rate-determining step. Needed to first identify rate-determining step the general theory of the reaction -- this is step 2. Then remember that the rate is proportional to the reactant of the determining step. This reactant is ES complex. (APPLICATION!)

When placed in an electric field, which of the following compounds will migrate toward the cathode at pH 7.0? A. H2NCH2COOH B. H2NCH2CHNH2COOH C. HOOCCH2CHNH2COOH D. HOOCCHNH2CH2-S-S-CH2-CHNH2COOH (Chem/Phys, Question #9)

B. H2NCH2CHNH2COOH Question deals w/ amphoteric properties of amino acids. At neutral or alkaline pH values -- -COOH group is (-) charged, and NH2 group is (+) charged. ZWITTERION form! Overall charge of amino acid depends on ratio of (+) amino groups to (-) carboxylate groups. For molecule to migrate to cathode it must have positive charge. - (+) charged species will migrate toward cathode, because cathode is (-) - FAT CAT (from anode to cathode -- for electrons) -- since placed with an electric field, we are making electrons move against their gradient. Because they are moving TO the CATHODE -- the cathode must also be (-) Of choices provided only (B) is positively charged at pH 7. Why missed? Couldn't remember what charge the cathode and anode had in an electrolytic cell (in an electric field). (CONTENT!)

Which of the following is/are true about Reaction 1? I. The reaction is not spontaneous. II. There is an overall decrease in entropy during the reaction. III. The reaction is exothermic. A. I only B. I and II only C. II and III only D. I, II, and III (Chem/Phys, Question #23)

B. I and II only ∆G = +686 kcal/mol -- since it is (+) it is non-spontaneous -- (I) is true. Change in entropy during the reaction can be estimated by considering: (1) number of moles of reactants and products and (2) any phase changes. - There are 12 moles of reactants and only 7 moles of products -- therefore there must be a decrease in entropy (decrease in disorder) - There is a change in phase from gaseous reactants to a solid product -- this would also correspond to a decrease in entropy So -- statement (II) is true. This reaction takes in energy in the form of light -- so it is endothermic -- therefore (III) is false. Why missed? Did not correctly evaluate entropy. Entropy increase = increase in disorder Entropy decrease = decrease in disorder Moving from more moles to less moles means a decrease in disorder -- decrease in entropy. Going from liquids/gases to solids is a decrease in disorder -- decrease in entropy. (REASONING! CONTENT CLARIFICATION!)

The psychostimulants levoamphetamine and dextroamphetamine are stereoisomers of the amphetamine molecule. Given the structure of dextroamphetamine below, which of the following statments must NOT be true? A. Levoamphetamine is also known as (R)-amphetamine B. Levoamphetamine is also known as D-amphetamine C. Dextroamphetamine is also known as (+)-amphetamine D. Dextroamphetamine is also known as (d)-amphetamine (Chem/Phys, Question #12)

B. Levoamphetamine is also known as D-amphetamine From the structure, we can see that dextroamphetamine is the (S) enantiomer -- therefore levoamphetamine must be the (R) enantiomer. So A is true, and eliminated. Dextroamphetamine is known as (+)-amphetamine since that designation refers to the dextrorotatory stereoisomer -- so (C) is true, and eliminated. Lowercase designations (d)- and (l)- refer to dextrorotatory and levorotatory -- so (D) is true, and eliminated. Why missed? Did not know that dextrarotatory and levorotatory referred to roataion of plane polarized light and therefore the (+)/(-) or (d)/(l) prefixes/designations. (CONTENT!)

Suppose a third circle c was incorporated into each trial exactly half the distance between o and b (for all trials). The intensity (or brightness) of c was subliminal. Based on Figure 2, which of the following conclusions would be most supported after making this change? A. Sb will be lesser at equilibrium for all time frames if c can be subconsciously perceived B. Sb will be greater at equilibrium for all timeframes if c can be subconsciously perceived C. Sb will be the same at equilibrium for all timeframes because c will not be perceived D. It would have not effect because c will not be perceived (Psych/Soc, Question #31)

B. Sb will be greater at equilibrium for all timeframes if c can be subconsciously perceived Figure 2 shows that Sb decreases as time between frames increases. (Time and distance are inversely related!) If an intermediate c is introduced -- this will not fundamentally disturb this relationship. It could mean two different things (depending on whether c is perceived): (1) A subliminal stimulus is one that is NOT above the threshold for conscious processing, BUT could still be processed subconsciously. If the image is processed subconsciously, then the relationship in Figure 2 needs to be considered twice -- if we are considering the path from o to c to b. One consideration to sustain the perception of motion from o to c, then one consideration to sustain the perception of motion from c to b. Thus -- Sb for each timeframe should be roughly double if c can be subconsciously perceived (27ms is the time between frames for o to c, then another 27s from c to b) Therefore (B) is correct -- b/c says the Sb will be greater for all timeframes if c can be subconsciously perceived. Why missed? Did not know how to analyze the figure, because did not know what the question stem was really asking. Needed to simplify / rephrase -- if another circle is added between the other two circles, with a minimal intensity, what happens to Sb? From here -- we know that if another circle is added to the path, the time between frames will decrease. Assuming that the circle is perceived -- we see that with a decrease in time between frames there is an increase in ratio of Sb/Sa, so Sb will increase. (REPHRASING!) (ANALYSIS!)

Which of the following best describes the sound waves at point B? A. Sound waves are traveling through air B. Sound waves are traveling through ossicles C. Sound waves are traveling through endolymph D. Sound waves are traveling through external auditory meatus (Chem/Phys, Question #19)

B. Sound waves are traveling through ossicles Speed of sound is proportional to the square root of a medium's bulk modulus. Therefore -- sound travels fastest in a solid. At point B, the speed of sound waves is the highest -- therefore we can predict that the sound waves must be traveling through a solid at that point. (B) is the only answer that has sound traveling through a solid. Why missed? Did not know what affects speed of sound. c = sqrt(Ks / p) **speed of sound is directly proportional to Ks (coefficient of stiffness) **speed of sound is indirectly proportional to density (CONTENT!)

An 18-carbon fatty acid undergoes B-oxidation as shown below: [C18 acid]-S-CoA + FAD + (NAD+) + H2O + CoA-SH --> [C16 acid]-S-CoA + CH3CO-S-CoA An experimenter adds a radioactive label to C-1 of the 18-carbon acid and to the sulfur atom in the coenzyme A used as a reactant. Where will those labels likely appear in the products? A. The labeled carbon will appear in the C16 acid while the labeled sulfur will appear in acetyl coenzyme A. B. The labeled carbon will appear in acetyl coenzyme A while the labeled sulfur will appear in the C16 acid. C. Both labels will appear in the C16 acid. D. Both labels will appear in the acetyl coenzyme A. (Bio/Biochem, Question #46)

B. The labeled carbon will appear in acetyl coenzyme A while the labeled sulfur will appear in the C16 acid. This question tests knowledge of fatty acid oxidation (B-oxidation) b/c it cleaves the carbon-carbon bond before the B-carbon of the acid (the B-carbon is C3!) The carbon atom is C-1 of the acid --> this will end up in the acetyl coenzyme A (gets cleaved off during the oxidation) The sulfur in the labeled coenzyme A will end up attached to the C16 product (new coA needs to be added for the next B-oxidation round) Why missed? Did not know specifics or mechanism of Beta oxidation of fatty acids. (CONTENT!)

As glucose, a reducing sugar, is oxidized during Fehling's reaction, how is the equilibrium between hemiacetal D-glucose and linear D-glucose shifted? A. The oxidation reaction does not disrupt the equilibrium of glucose. B. There is a shift favoring the replacement of the linear form of glucose. C. Equilibrium favors the formation of the hemiacetal form of glucose. D. Equilibrium initially favors linear, but eventually reverts to hemiacetal. (Chem/Phys, Question #37)

B. There is a shift favoring the replacement of the linear form of glucose. The reaction will shift to favor the linear form of glucose. Ring and linear form are initially in equilibrium -- but the linear form is the only form that can undergo oxidation. As Fehling's reaction progresses -- more of the linear form of glucose gets consumed (is oxidized) -- this causes equilibrium between linear and ring form of glucose to shift toward linear glucose. Why missed? Knew that the molecule could only be oxidized in the linear form (aldehyde oxidized to carboxylic acid) -- couldn't have been oxidized in the ring form. BUT did not match accordingly. (READING! MATCHING!)

Viagra will not produce an erection in the absence of sexual stimulation. Which of the following best explains this fact? A. The PDE-5 enzyme is not expressed until the cavernous nerves are stimulated B. Viagra does not produce cGMP C. PDE-5 cannot be competitively inhibited under low levels of NO D. Viagra increases production of NO (Bio/Biochem, Question #6)

B. Viagra does not produce cGMP Viagra does NOT signal any portion of the mechanism from neural impulse to erection. Rather -- it boosts cGMP concentration by inhibiting the enzyme that ordinarily breaks it down. In this way -- it does not create the signal to create an erection -- instead it boosts the second messenger to its maximum effectiveness Why missed? Relied solely on the image -- which was not sufficient. Needed to go back and investigate the mechanism. Where does viagra come into play? It stops cGMP from being converted into GMP. Here we could deduce that if without cGMP, Viagra would not work. Therefore -- if in the absence of an erection Viagra does not create an erection, there must be a lack of cGMP. Then we can deduce that Viagra does not create cGMP. (MISUNDERSTANDING!)

According to the passage, as [S] increases: A. Vo increases at a faster rate B. Vo increases at a slower rate C. Vo undergoes no change at all D. Vo increases at a constant rate (Chem/Phys, Question #34)

B. Vo increases at a slower rate From the figure (Michaelis-Mentin graph)... - at a low [S], as [S] increases, Vo increases at the fastest rate (almost linearly). - as [S] starts to increase -- Vo keeps slowing down until it reaches Vmax. So -- asking about toward the end of the graph where [S] is high -- rate slows. Why missed? Looked at the beginning of the graph -- not over the course of the end of the graph where the rate slows. (APPLICATION!)

Substance addiction would most commonly be considered: A. a result of assimilation B. a personal deviance C. a familially conditioned behavior D. a stigmatized conformity (Psych/Soc, Question #35)

B. a personal deviance This question is content-based -- it is asking for the general classification of substance addiction, NOT necessesarily how it is used in the passage. (B) -- personal deviance -- is the standard definition of substance abuse as it is considered individual deviant behavior. Why missed? Chose the answer choice that aligns with how the term is used in the context of the passage -- BUT that is not what the question was asking for! (READING!) (CONTEXT!)

After an infection, such as by C. difficile, the normal gut flora "re-colonize" the digestive tract. Those re-colonizing bacteria are most likely harbored by the: A. terminal ileum B. cecum C. jejunum D. rectum (Bio/Biochem, Question #33)

B. cecum Normal gut flora "hang out" in the cecum. Cecum: blind out-pouching of the large intestine Terminal ileum: the most distal segment of the small intestine; hosts toxic substances (bacteria, viruses, parasites, digested food) Jejunum: part of the small intestine between the duodenum and ileum Rectum: the final section of the large intestine; terminates at the anus Why missed? Did not missed -- but got the guess right. Didn't know the parts of the digestive tract. (CONTENT!)

All of the following structures secrete digestive enzymes EXCEPT the: A. oral cavity B. esophagus C. pancreas D. small intestine (Bio/Biochem, Question #1)

B. esophagus Pseudo-discrete question. Esophagus is simply a conduit through which a food bolus passes from the pharynx to the stomach -- there are no glands that secrete into the esophageal lumen. (A) is INCORRECT -- oral cavity contains salivary glands. - salivary glands begin chemical digestion w/ the secretion of salivary amylase or ptyalin -- this enzyme hydrolyzes starch to maltose. (C) is INCORRECT -- pancreas secretes numerous digestive enzymes. (D) is INCORRECT - Duodenum (first part of small intestine) has mucosal glands (Brunners glands) that secrete mucus to protect small intestine from acidic gastric juices. - Rest of small intestine contains pits (crypts of Lieberkuhn) that have mucus-secreting glandular cells - Intestinal glands secrete aminopeptidase and dipeptidases -- these are enzymes that hydrolyze peptide bonds - Intestinal gland secrete enterokinase -- this converts trypsinogen to trypsin Why missed? Did not know the small intestine released digestive enzymes. (CONTENT!)

A researcher recruits 8 patients with lesions in their submarginal gyrus and 8 without the lesion. He aims to better understand complex speech. When interpreting the results of this study, the researcher will most likely be using: A. intuition based reasoning B. inductive reasoning C. top-down reasoning D. the disconfirmation principle (Psych/Soc, Question #59)

B. inductive reasoning Inductive reasoning is often used in scientific research. Its goal is to study a sample of X in order to better understand something about the nature of the entire population of X -- and then create a theory by way of generalization. It is a cognitive process. Why missed? Did not know definition of inductive reasoning. Also did not know definitions of other terms. (CONTENT!)

In order to accommodate a larger volume of sample, a chemist scales up his experiment by doubling the diameter of his chromatography column while maintaining a constant length. Given the ratio of mobile phase volume to column volume remains constant, by what factor has the capacity of the column increased? A. 1 B. 2 C. 4 D. 8 (Chem/Phys, Question #38)

C. 4 Set up equations to reduce down to find how much the capacity of the column increases by. (sample 1) / (sample 2) = (column 1) / (column 2) (sample 1) / (sample 2) = (length x pi x (radius1)^2) / (length x pi x (radius2)^2) (sample 1) / (sample 2) = ((radius1)^2) / ((radius2)^2) Plug in numbers to find that the new sample increases by 4x. Why missed? Did not write out the relationship. Messed up the relationship of the radius. Since diameter increases by 2x, and D = r/2 -- D and r are proportional. So if D goes up 2x, then r goes up 2x. 2^2 = 4, so capacity of column increases 4x. (MISCALCULATION!)

If a sample of DNA underwent four rounds of replication, what percentage of the total DNA present would be comprised of the original DNA molecule? A. 0% B. 3.125% C. 6.25% D. 12.5% (Bio/Biochem, Question #57)

C. 6.25% Start with 2 sister strands of original DNA After 1 round of replication --> 4 strands of DNA After 2 rounds of replication --> 8 strands of DNA After 3 rounds of replication --> 16 strands of DNA After 4 rounds of replication --> 32 strands of DNA 2/32 = 0.0625 6.25% of the total DNA is original. Why missed? Did not account for each new DNA to replicate also -- just went linearly, but each new will replicate into two more, so need to double each time. (CALCULATION!) (REASONING!)

How do blood flow rate (BFR) and blood pressure (BP) differ in pulmonary and systemic circulation? A. BP is greater in pulmonary circulation, and BFR is greater in systemic circulation. B. BP is greater in systemic circulation, and BFR is greater in pulmonary circulation. C. BP is greater in systemic circulation, and BFR is the same for both circulations. D. BP is greater in pulmonary circulation, and BFR is the same for both circulations. (Chem/Phys, Question #6)

C. BP is greater in systemic circulation, and BFR is the same for both circulations. Pulmonary circulation is much shorter than systemic -- so resistance is also much less. This is analogous to the resistance formula R = (pL)/A. The right ventricle (which feeds the pulmonary circulation) generates less force than the left ventricle (which feeds the systemic circulation). Since pressure = force/area this means the pulmonary pressure is less than systemic. - Pulmonary has less force, and less area - Systemic has greater force, and greater area Since pulmonary circulation and systemic circulation are connected in series (flow rate is analogous to current) -- flow rates must be equal . Why missed? Did not reason through the question by applying the analogy of human circulation to a circuit. If applied as a circuit -- could separate components. - BFR = current --> current in series is equivalent. - BP = dependent on F/A --> force is less for pulmonary, and area is lower. (APPLICATION! REASONING!) (CONTENT!)

Electrons in the 1s subshell of which of the following elements experience the greatest effective nuclear charge? A. H B. Na C. Cl D. O (Chem/Phys, Question #42)

C. Cl Zeff increases from left to right across the periodic table because of the increase in positive charge in the nucleus. Because the question asks about 1s electrons -- shielding effects can be ignored -- this makes the number of protons the most important factor. Why missed? Answered the question based on the basic trend of increasing Zeff from left to right / bottom to top. BUT -- this was not sufficient. Because question asks about the 1s electrons only -- we will have a higher Zeff for the element whose positive nucleus has the greatest charge (most protons). (APPLICATION!)

Which of the following is LEAST likely to be an example of an educational disparity caused by residential segregation? A. Decreased use of classroom technology B. Insufficient access to constant bussing C. Less access to federally funded educational programs D. Inequality in access to well-trained teachers (Psych/Soc, Question #26)

C. Less access to federally funded educational programs Residential segregation is the result of separation of different groups into neighborhoods. The correct answer will be one that does not depend on a disparity caused by the location of the neighborhood and the restriction of access to one school over another. Technology, bussing, and teachers, are all differences that change from location to location. Federally funded educational programs do NOT differ necessarily by location -- so not residential segregation. Could be another type of educational disparity, but not residential secgregation. Why missed? Rephrasing problem. Needed to rephrase to emphasize the residential segregation. What are examples of educational disparity caused by residential segregation? Eliminate those. (REPHRASING!)

When phosphoric acid is titrated with a strong base, which of the following is the predominant compound present at the third equivalence point? A. Hydrogen phosphate B. Dihydrogen phosphate C. Phosphate ion D. Phosphoric acid (Chem/Phys, Question #50)

C. Phosphate ion Phosphoric acid, H3PO4, is a triprotic acid. 3 equivalents of base will be needed to neutralize one equivalent of H3PO4. At the first equivalence point -- the first proton has been removed -- leaving us with H2PO4- At the second equivalence point -- the second proton has been removed -- leaving us with HPO42- At the third equivalence point -- the third proton has been removed -- leaving us with PO43- Why missed? Was thinking about the question incorrectly -- thought about the question as which form of phosphoric acid is most basic (thinking it would be most protonated) -- but this was INCORRECT! Treating a solution of phosphoric acid with a strong base would reduce the H+ ions in solution -- this means the component would take on its deprotonated form, leading to phosphate ion. (APPLICATION! REASONING!)

Genetic testing for MCAD deficiency can be challenging because multiple, distant sites within the gene can be mutated to produce disease, while mutations at other sites within the gene are benign. What does this suggest about the necessary enzyme structure? A. Primary structure is the most important for enzyme function. B. Secondary structure is the most important for enzyme function. C. Tertiary structure is the most important for enzyme function. D. Quaternary structure is the most important for enzyme function. (Bio/Biochem, Question #26)

C. Tertiary structure is the most important for enzyme function. Use outside knowledge! Most inactive enzymes have modifications of the active site -- this is part of the tertiary structure. (D) is INCORRECT -- passage states that MCAD is monomeric -- so quaternary structure is not a concern. (A) and (B) are INCORRECT -- b/c there are mutations that are benign, which would change the primary structure (and possible secondary structure), but since the enzyme is still functional, the tertiary must be intact. Why missed? Was trying to search passage and reason through, but did not think of it in more simplistic terms. Should have realized that if some mutations were benign, primary would not be most important (b/c this is where those mutations occur). If primary isn't most important, secondary would not likely be either. However, for tertiary, this is where the protein gains its functionality, so if it is messed up here the protein will not function. (REASONING!) (STRATEGY!)

A therapeutic patient undergoes systematic desensitization treatment. The function of which of the following structures is most altered by the end of the treatment? A. The pituitary gland B. The prefrontal cortex C. The amygadala D. The hippocampus (Psych/Soc, Question #28)

C. The amygadala Systematic desensitization is the use of increasingly proximal stimuli to gradually reduce the fear response in an individual. Since the amygdala is the brain structure that is most responsible for fear response, its function would be diminished when exposed to the stimulus in question. Why missed? Originally chose the correct answer -- knew that systematic desensitization was a treatment to reduce fear. Fear is associated with the amygdala -- so that would make most sense. BUT -- talked myself into prefrontal cortex, which was incorrect. (STRATEGY!)

Which of the following results from the experiment mentioned in the fourth paragraph of the passage would WEAKEN the argument that umami is a unique receptor which constitutes a fifth taste? A. The receptor responds to glutamate at the same concentrations at which glutamate can be tasted. B. Chemicals which mimic the taste of glutamate activate the receptor. C. The binding of glutamate hyperpolarizes all taste receptors. D. The amount of glutamate in foods is much greater than the concentration of glutamate found in the brain. (Bio/Biochem, Question #15)

C. The binding of glutamate hyperpolarizes all taste receptors. If binding of glutamate hyperpolarized taste receptors, they would be less likely to reach threshold and produce an action potential. Without an action potential -- no taste would register within the brain. Why missed? Needed to rephrase the question better. Should have rephrased -- What supports/proves that umami is a unique receptor/taste? (eliminate those). Then I could have eliminated anything that proves umami is a fifth taste. (REPHRASING!) (STRATEGY!)

The binding of oxygen to hemoglobin does not follow the rules of Michaelis-Menten kinetics, primarily because: A. hemoglobin does not modify oxygen B. hemoglobin can bind more tightly to carbon monoxide than to oxygen C. hemoglobin exhibits allosteric effects D. oxygen is a gas at standard temperature and pressure (Bio/Biochem, Question #47)

C. hemoglobin exhibits allosteric effects Key assumption of Michaelis-Menten kinetics is that there is one active site capable of binding substrate. This is not true for Hemoglobin -- Hemoglobin is an allosteric protein with four subunits capable of binding oxygen, and exhibits cooperativity. Cooperativity: when one oxygen binds, the other sites bind oxygen more easily. All other answer choices are true statements, but do NOT answer the question. Why missed? Did not know the definition of allosteric effects. Knew that the reason was due to cooperativity, but could not find something (that I understood b/c didn't know "allosteric effects" meant cooperative binding) that matched. (MISSING DEFINITION!)

The participants' failure to inform the cashier of being undercharged would most accurately constitute a: A. taboo B. sanction C. violation of social mores D. violation of social folkways (Psych/Soc, Question #50)

C. violation of social mores When participants are undercharged -- they are pocketing money to which they may not be morally entitled. This level of dishonesty is NOT severe enough to be a taboo. - Taboo: unacceptable, disgusting, or reprehensible behavior This is not a sanction against the cashier. Sanction: maintain social control This now makes it an issue of scale -- is it a violation of a broader social more or a violation of the behavior expected in a very specific circumstance (folkway)? Keeping hold of something of value that does not belong to you is a broadly applicable faux pas (deceit or dishonesty) that applies to far more than just customer-cashier etiquette. Why missed? Did not remember distinct definitions for the terms. (CONTENT CLARIFICATION!)

Suppose that a certain surgery is discovered to eliminate the sense of right and wrong while retaining self-consciousness. Based on the information in the passage, the discovery would: (CARS, Question #4)

Strengthen/Weaken (reasoning Within the Text) Why missed? Key to this question is to identify what relevance this situation has to what part of the passage. Here -- an action is performed on the brain -- moral sense is removed while consciousness is intact. Since self-awareness is unchanged (which both philosophies rely on) -- neither philosophy is supported or hurt by the experiment. Should have rephrased -- what affect does eliminating a sense of right and wrong have on the arguments? What affect does retaining self-consciousness have on the arguments? (UNDERSTANDING!)

Assuming classical Mendelian inheritance, how can one differentiate between a homozygous dominant individual and one who is heterozygous for the dominant trait? A. By crossing each individual with a known homozygous dominant and examining the offspring. B. By crossing each individual with a known homozygous recessive and examining the offspring. C. By crossing each individual with a known heterozygote and examining the offspring. D. Both B and C. (Bio/Biochem, Question #59)

D. Both B and C. Need to differentiate between homozygous dominant and heterozygous dominant. We can perform a cross with homozygous recessive and examine the offspring: - for homozygous dominant x homozygous recessive --> 100% of offspring will be phenotypically dominant - for heterozygous dominant x homozygous recessive --> 50% of offspring will be phenotypically dominant and 50% of offspring will be phenotypically recessive (this allows us to tell the difference) --> (B) is correct. We can perform a cross with heterozygous recessive and examine the offspring: - for homozygous dominant x heterozygous recessive --> 100% of offspring will be phenotypically dominant - for heterozygous dominant x heterozygous recessive --> 75% of offspring will be phenotypically dominant and 25% of offspring will be phenotypically recessive (this allows us to tell the difference) --> (C) is also correct. Why missed? Went off of memory of hearing something in class about crossing with homozygous recessive. BUT should have applied specifically to this scenario and drawn out the possibility for heterozygous test cross. (STRATEGY!)

Unlike nitric oxide release, release of serotonin from neurons involves the simultaneous release of between 1,000 to 10,000 molecules. Serotonin release illustrates which of the following transport mechanisms? A. Primary active transport B. Secondary active transport C. Facilitated diffusion D. Exocytosis (Bio/Biochem, Question #7)

D. Exocytosis Question is pseudo-discrete -- testing knowledge of serotonin release from neurons. Question says simultaneous release of a large number of serotonin molecules -- therefore, the correct answer can NOT involve transport of one molecule at a time. Therefore, it must be exocytosis because exocytosis involves a vesicle fusing with the cell membrane and expelling its contents (transfering large numbers of molecules). (A) is INCORRECT -- Primary active transport: moves a small number of molecules (usually one to three) across the cell membrane using ATP (chemical energy) to move species against their concentration gradient. (B) is INCORRECT -- Secondary active transport moves a small number of molecules (usually one to three) across the cell membrane using the energy of another species moving along its concentration gradient to move itself against its concentration gradient. (C) is INCORRECT -- Facilitated diffusion moves a small number of molecules (usually one to three) across the cell membrane through transport proteins in the plasma membrane along the species' concentration gradient (passive transport) Why missed? Forgot the difference in the types of transport mechanisms. (CONTENT!) Also -- missed thinking about the large number of molecules moving simultaneously -- even without knowledge of the definitions, could have eliminated knowing primary active transport, secondary active transport, and facilitated diffusion all occur using transport proteins in the plasma membrane. (STRATEGY!) (READING!)

Which of the following provides the most reasonable evolutionary explanation for fainting when circulation to the brain is insufficient? A. The CNS ischemic response increases the pressure of blood traveling to the brain. B. Baroreceptor response to this insufficiency causes brain BP to exceed ventricular BP. C. An inactive brain results in diminished metabolic need, allowing circulation to catch up. D. Fainting results in a reduction of the effects of gravity on blood flow to the brain. (Chem/Phys, Question #7)

D. Fainting results in a reduction of the effects of gravity on blood flow to the brain. Equation for hydrostatic pressure: P =pgz Pressure is DIRECTLY proportional to depth -- or in other words, INVERSELY proportional to height. If circulation to the brain is insufficient -- fainting makes the individual collapse to the floor -- this positions the brain at the same height relative to the rest of the body, thus preventing blood pressure in the brain from dropping. Why missed? Needed to think of this problem in terms of pressure. Then -- could have seen that pressure is a function of height/depth. At a lower height -- there is less pressure -- this would aid in blood circulation as it would prevent blood pressure from dropping. (APPLICATION! REASONING!) Also -- could have thought through this logically in that once someone faints, this brings their head equal to their body. (LOGIC! STRATEGY!)

A therapist uses the emotion-coaching technique to aid a depressed patient in improving emotional awareness. Which of the following perspectives best describes this therapist's treatment paradigm? A. Freudian B. Trait C. Behavioral D. Humanist (Psych/Soc, Question #7)

D. Humanist Based on the passage -- emotional-coaching technique involves processing and becoming aware of one's own emotions. The humanist perspective, with its focus on self-actualization and helping patients become more complete and fulfilled individuals, is the best match. (A) is INCORRECT -- Freudian perspectives focus on the unconscious (B) is INCORRECT -- Trait perspective focuses on measuring aspects of personality that are able to be grouped into patterns of thought and behavior. (C) is INCORRECT -- Behavioral perspective focuses more on action than cognition. Why missed? Had it down between (C) and (D). Did not know the definition of humanist. (CONTENT!) BUT -- could have probably used better strategy even without knowing the definition of humanist. Ask myself - what is the emotional-coaching technique and what does it do? It aids in cognitive processing of emotion. Based on this definition -- behavioral could be eliminated because the focus is on cognitive, not behavioral! (STRATEGY!)

A student in another lab is working on a project studying inattentional blindness. If the student wishes to utilize the stimulus described in the passage, which of the following adjustments would be most appropriate? A. Having participants observe the stimulus on a loop for thirty seconds while the student monitors their eye movements. B. Including a new frame flashed for 50ms during the stimulus in which the circles change to either triangles or squares, and asking participants to identify the non-circle shape. C. Asking participants to listen to and memorize a list of ten nonsense words while observing the stimulus and asking them to repeat the words shortly afterward. D. Including in the stimulus a small white triangle that appears in the lower left corner of the screen, moves slowly to the upper right, then disappears. (Psych/Soc, Question #34)

D. Including in the stimulus a small white triangle that appears in the lower left corner of the screen, moves slowly to the upper right, then disappears. Inattentional blindness = failing to see (blindness) visible objects when attention is directed elsewhere (inattention) (D) describes a modified stimulus which adds a new object that the participants may be blind to if their attention is on the "moving" circles. Why missed? Did not know the definition of inattentional blindness. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following is true of culture? A. Culture cannot be taught and must be learned through personal experience. B. Cultural symbols have intrinsic meanings that lend them their primary importance. C. Individuals invariably question the culture of which they are a part. D. Lamarckian inheritance more accurately characterizes cultural evolution than biological evolution (Psych/Soc, Question #54)

D. Lamarckian inheritance more accurately characterizes cultural evolution than biological evolution Lamarck believed in "use and disuse" inheritance. If a trait / characteristic was used frequently -- would grow; if used infrequently -- would wither away. Lamarckian theory proven to be incorrect (replaced by the Darwinian model) -- BUT does describe cultural evolution. Cultural traditions that are consistently practiced will persist through generations while out-dated traditions will be forgotten. Why missed? Did not know the definition of Lamarckian inheritance. (CONTENT!)

Which of the following is NOT a long-term cultural effect of desegregation that can lead to attitude change within a society? A. Interaction with members of groups that were previously discriminated against can cause cognitive dissonance that ultimately leads to acceptance of the group. B. Interactions between groups forces individuals to question, and alter or avoid the use of heuristics when evaluating others. C. As members of formerly separated groups mingle, the definition of "in-group" and "out-group" changes. D. Over time, attitudes about groups that were previously discriminated against became based more on reputation and less on intellectual appraisal. (Psych/Soc, Question #25)

D. Over time, attitudes about groups that were previously discriminated against became based more on reputation and less on intellectual appraisal. (A), (B), and (C) = examples of the effects of mixing groups of people that leads to attitude change. - cognitive dissonance between beliefs (stereotypes) - experience (interaction with others) Individualizing each other (changing the definitions of "we" and "they") does not fit -- also the use of reputations is NOT likely to lead to an attitude change (especially without intellectual appraisal). Why missed? Needed to rephrase -- look for ways desegregation would lead to attitude change -- eliminate those. (REPHRASING!) (REASONING!)

Suppose that a group of individuals diagnosed with personality disorder were found to believe - based on their childhood experiences in dysfunctional families - that their socially destructive actions should have yielded neutral or positive social results with those around them. This could be most directly and simply explained by which of the following theoretical frameworks? A. Humanistic perspective B. Biological perspective C. Behaviorist perspective D. Social cognitive perspective (Psych/Soc, Question #13)

D. Social cognitive perspective The correct answer needs to explain the behavior of subjects in terms of their expectations of others. Social cognitive perspective is based upon the expectations of others. (A) is INCORRECT -- humanistic perspective is centered on the use of free will and how best to apply it. (B) is INCORRECT -- biological perspective is based on biological inheritance. (C) is INCORRECT =-- behaviorist perspective is related to external stimuli experienced by the person. Why missed? Did not remember clear definitions for the terms. (CONTENT!) Did not rephrase / analyze question stem well. Should have picked out key points that would lead to an answer -- "those around them", "actions" -- these clues would have yielded the correct answer. (REPHRASING!) (ANALYSIS!)

An individual who identifies herself as being a moderate supporter of a political movement is presented with a number of articles, some of which provide views that support the movement and some of which describe dissenting views. Which of the following is the most likely result? A. The individual changes to oppose the movement. B. The individual changes her position to that of neutrality. C. The individual's position remains unchanged. D. The individual increases her support of the movement. (Psych/Soc, Question #11)

D. The individual increases her support of the movement. The concept of belief perseverance dictates that when presented with information of varying opinion -- people are more likely to believe information that confirms their opinion and discount evidence which refutes it. The result is that even when presented with information supporting both sides, people tend to confirm and solidify their position. Why missed? Did not recognize this question stem was describing belief perseverance. Had I recognized that -- I would have been able to answer that her opinion strengthened. Needed to rephrase / analyze question stem to isolate what this example was showing in terms of phenomena. (REPHRASING!) (ANALYSIS!)

If a psychologist wished to classify the substance abuse of a child of an addict as behavioral rather than genetic, which of the following would be the best and most complete explanation? A. The presence of substances in the home of the child and the related experiences trigger similar feelings when the child sees the substance as an adult. B. The erratic behavior of the addict parent results in inconsistent reinforcement for the child, making the child uncertain as to what constitutes acceptable behavior. C. The reward pathway of the child is similar to that of the addict parent, leading the drug addiction likelihood of the child to be significantly higher than average. D. The parental substance abuse was a chronic stressor to the child, and the child's eventual abuse was a behavioral reaction to the stressor. (Psych/Soc, Question #38)

D. The parental substance abuse was a chronic stressor to the child, and the child's eventual abuse was a behavioral reaction to the stressor. The correct answer must be entirely behavioral and should logically increase the tendency of addiction. (D) is the best answer -- it makes the parent an external behavioral issue and the child's eventual reaction a behavioral issue, too. (A) is INCORRECT -- doesn't necessarily explain why the child would eventually be an addict; the response is not described and does not imply that the child is likely to engage in the substance. (B) is INCORRECT -- could potentially contribute to the child engaging in deviant behavior, but there is no reason to believe that this would be a direct link to addiction. (C) is INCORRECT -- biological explanation. Why missed? Needed to rephrase better. What answer choice describes a potential reason for increased tendency of addiction with ONLY behavioral? From here -- could immediately eliminate C. Then between others -- look for what necessarily increases tendency of addiction. From here we would only be left with (D). (REPHRASING!) (REASONING!)