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. A book slides across a table. What determines the magnitude of the frictional force acting on the book?

A. Only the mass of the book
B. Only the normal force from the table
C. Both the mass of the book and the normal force from the table
D. Neither the mass of the book nor the normal force from the table

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Both the mass of the book and the normal force from the table. Friction is proportional to both the normal force and the coefficient of friction, which depends on the materials in contact. Since the normal force depends on the weight of the object (mass x gravity), both factors are important.

3. Which of the following is NOT a major component of a healthy blood pressure reading?

A. Systolic pressure (peak pressure during ventricular contraction).
B. Diastolic pressure (pressure within arteries during ventricular relaxation).
C. Pulse pressure (difference between systolic and diastolic pressure).
D. Blood oxygen saturation While blood oxygen levels are crucial for overall health, they are not directly reflected in a blood pressure reading.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Systolic pressure is a major component of a healthy blood pressure reading as it represents the peak pressure in the arteries during ventricular contraction. Diastolic pressure, representing the pressure in the arteries during ventricular relaxation, is also a key component. Pulse pressure, the difference between systolic and diastolic pressure, provides additional information about the cardiovascular system. Blood oxygen saturation, while important for overall health, is not directly measured in a blood pressure reading. Therefore, it is not a major component of a healthy blood pressure reading.

4. The number of protons in an atom is determined by its:

A. Atomic mass
B. Electron configuration
C. Chemical properties
D. Atomic number

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Atomic number is a fundamental property of an element and is independent of its mass, electron configuration, or chemical behavior.

5. What is the main concern the author raises about AI?

A. Its limitations in achieving true intelligence and emulating human consciousness.
B. Its potential for misuse in warfare and autonomous weapons systems.
C. Its detrimental impact on the environment and resource consumption.
D. Its ethical implications related to bias, privacy, and job displacement.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The passage explicitly mentions concerns about bias, privacy, and job displacement, making D the main concern highlighted.

6. What is the scientific term for the involuntary rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle?

A. Peristalsis
B. Myogenesis
C. Myocardial contractility
D. Systole and diastole

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Systole and diastole. Systole refers to the phase of the heartbeat when the heart muscle contracts and pumps blood out, while diastole is the phase when the heart muscle relaxes and fills with blood. This rhythmic contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle is crucial for maintaining blood circulation throughout the body. Peristalsis (option A) is the involuntary constriction and relaxation of the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract that pushes contents forward. Myogenesis (option B) is the formation of muscle tissue. Myocardial contractility (option C) refers to the ability of the heart muscle to contract. Therefore, the most appropriate term for the described process is systole and diastole.