1. Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for developing atherosclerosis?

A. High blood pressure
B. High levels of LDL cholesterol
C. Regular physical activity
D. Smoking

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Regular physical activity is NOT a risk factor for developing atherosclerosis. In fact, engaging in regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing atherosclerosis by improving cardiovascular health, lowering blood pressure, and reducing LDL cholesterol levels. High blood pressure, high levels of LDL cholesterol, and smoking are all known risk factors for atherosclerosis. High blood pressure can damage blood vessels, making them more susceptible to plaque buildup. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the accumulation of plaque in the arteries, narrowing the passageways and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis. Smoking is harmful to blood vessels, promoting inflammation and the formation of plaque. Therefore, regular physical activity is actually a protective factor against atherosclerosis rather than a risk factor.

2. The "master gland" of the endocrine system, located at the base of the brain, secretes various hormones that control other glands is the:

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Pancreas

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Pituitary gland. The pituitary gland is often referred to as the "master gland" because it plays a crucial role in regulating other endocrine glands in the body. It is located at the base of the brain and secretes various hormones that control functions such as growth, metabolism, reproduction, and stress response. The thyroid gland (A) regulates metabolism, the adrenal gland (C) produces hormones involved in stress response, and the pancreas (D) is primarily responsible for regulating blood sugar levels through insulin production, but they do not serve as the master gland of the endocrine system.

3. The sentence "The audience was captivated by the speaker's compelling story" implies that the audience:

A. Was bored and disinterested.
B. Found the story confusing.
C. Was completely absorbed and engaged.
D. Disagreed with the speaker's message.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: "Captivated" suggests the audience was completely held by the speaker's story.

4. Which of the following is NOT a typical component of healthy semen?

A. Sperm
B. Fructose (sugar)
C. Prostaglandins
D. Urine

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Urine. Semen is a mixture of fluids from various glands in the male reproductive system. It typically contains sperm, fructose (sugar) to provide energy for the sperm, and prostaglandins to aid in sperm motility. Urine is not a normal component of healthy semen. It is important to note that urine and semen travel through different pathways in the male body, and they should not mix. Therefore, the presence of urine in semen would indicate a potential issue or infection in the urinary system. Understanding the components of healthy semen is crucial for assessing male reproductive health and fertility.

5. What is the purpose of the periosteum, the tough outer layer of bone?

A. Produces red blood cells
B. Provides protection and nourishment to bone
C. Forms the joint surface
D. Stores minerals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Provides protection and nourishment to bone.' The periosteum is a tough outer layer of bone that serves multiple functions. It provides protection by acting as a barrier against infections and injuries. Additionally, the periosteum contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the bone cells, aiding in bone growth, repair, and maintenance. While red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, not in the periosteum, the periosteum's primary role is to support the overall health and integrity of the bone structure.

6. What is the scientific study of the relationships between organisms and their environment?

A. Zoology
B. Botany
C. Ecology
D. Genetics

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Zoology is the scientific study of animals. B) Botany is the scientific study of plants. C) Ecology is the scientific study of the relationships between organisms and their environment, including the interactions between living organisms and their physical surroundings. D) Genetics is the scientific study of genes, heredity, and variation in living organisms, which is not directly related to the relationships between organisms and their environment.