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. What happens to the force of gravity between two objects when the distance between them is doubled?

A. ) The force increases by a factor of 2
B. The force increases by a factor of 4
C. The force decreases by a factor of 2
D. The force decreases by a factor of 4

Correct answer: d

Rationale: According to the inverse square law of gravity, the force of gravity decreases by a factor of 4 when the distance between two objects is doubled.

3. What does the term "dilution" refer to in a solution?

A. Adding more solvent to decrease concentration
B. Adding more solute to increase concentration
C. Reducing the temperature to increase solubility
D. Increasing pressure to increase solubility

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Dilution involves adding more solvent to a solution to decrease the concentration of solute. The other choices do not accurately describe dilution

4. The phrase "disruptions to ecosystems" refers to

A. Minor inconveniences experienced by plant and animal species due to changing weather patterns.
B. Significant changes in ecological relationships and imbalances in populations and food webs.
C. The aesthetic alteration of landscapes due to melting glaciers and deforestation.
D. The economic losses suffered by industries relying on natural resources affected by climate change.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The phrase suggests profound impacts on ecological balance and species interactions, aligning with B.

5. Which pronoun correctly replaces the underlined phrase in the sentence: "Jessica invited Sarah and me to the party, but I forgot to respond to her."

A. We
B. Us
C. Ours
D. Myself

Correct answer: C

Rationale: "Ours" clarifies that the response forgetting was a joint action by Jessica and the speaker.

6. Which of the following is NOT a recognized mode of natural selection?

A. Directional selection (favoring one extreme trait value on a spectrum)
B. Disruptive selection (favoring both extreme trait values on a spectrum)
C. Stabilizing selection (favoring the average trait value on a spectrum)
D. Sexual selection (selection based on mate choice that influences reproductive success)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Directional selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where one extreme trait value on a spectrum is favored over others. This can lead to a shift in the average trait value over time. B) Disruptive selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where both extreme trait values on a spectrum are favored over the average trait value. This can lead to the population splitting into two distinct groups. C) Stabilizing selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where the average trait value on a spectrum is favored over extreme values. This can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity within a population. D) Sexual selection is not a mode of natural selection in the traditional sense, as it involves mate choice and competition for mates rather than direct selection pressure on traits that affect survival and reproduction in the environment. Sexual selection can lead to the evolution of traits that enhance an individual's ability to attract