1. Which of the following is NOT a function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

A. Synthesis of lipids (fats)
B. Transport of materials within the cell
C. Detoxification of harmful substances
D. Breakdown of cellular waste products

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Detoxification of harmful substances.' The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is responsible for synthesizing lipids (fats), transporting materials within the cell, and breaking down cellular waste products. However, detoxification of harmful substances is primarily carried out by the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) where enzymes detoxify drugs and other harmful compounds. Therefore, C is the correct answer as it is not a primary function of the ER.

2. A set of temperature readings has a range of 5 degrees Celsius. What does this tell you about the data?

A. The average temperature is 5 degrees Celsius.
B. All temperatures are within 5 degrees of each other.
C. The difference between the highest and lowest temperatures is 5 degrees.
D. There are exactly 5 temperatures in the set.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: - Option A is incorrect because the range of 5 degrees does not necessarily mean that the average temperature is 5 degrees Celsius. The average temperature could be any value within the range. - Option B is incorrect because the range of 5 degrees does not mean that all temperatures are within 5 degrees of each other. It only indicates the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures. - Option C is correct because the range of 5 degrees specifically refers to the difference between the highest and lowest temperatures in the set. This is a common definition of range in statistics. - Option D is incorrect because the range of 5 degrees does not determine the number of temperatures in the set. The set could have more or fewer than 5 temperatures.

3. Which sentence uses parentheses correctly?

A. The suspect was seen driving a red car (a witness reported).
B. The movie (released in 2022) received critical acclaim.
C. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes (including vegetarian options).
D. All participants (must register by Friday) will receive a free gift.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Parentheses are used for non-essential information that clarifies or adds detail. Option (a) is unnecessary and disrupts the flow of the sentence.

4. The least common multiple (LCM) of two numbers is the smallest number that is a multiple of both. Which of the following represents the LCM of 14 and 21?

A. 42
B. 63
C. 84
D. 168

Correct answer: C

Rationale: We can list out the multiples of each number until we find a common multiple. 14, 28, 42, 56, 84, ... 21, 42, 63, 84, ... The least common multiple is 84.

5. The tiny contractile units within muscle cells are called:

A. Myocytes
B. Myofibrils
C. Sarcomeres
D. Tendons

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sarcomeres. Sarcomeres are the basic contractile units within muscle cells. They are made up of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins, which slide past each other during muscle contraction, resulting in muscle movement. Myocytes (A) are muscle cells, myofibrils (B) are cylindrical structures within muscle fibers composed of sarcomeres, and tendons (D) are tough bands of connective tissue that connect muscle to bone. Therefore, sarcomeres are specifically responsible for muscle contraction within muscle cells.

6. What is the function of a cell wall?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The cell wall is a rigid layer that surrounds the cell membrane in plant cells, fungi, and some bacteria. Its main function is to provide structural support and protection for the cell, helping maintain the cell's shape and preventing it from bursting or collapsing. The cell wall also allows for the passage of water, ions, and other molecules in and out of the cell. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because those functions are typically carried out by other cellular structures such as the cell membrane, ribosomes, and nucleus, respectively.