1. Which of the following describes the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells?

A. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells don't.
B. Eukaryotic cells are simpler in structure than prokaryotic cells.
C. Prokaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells don't.
D. Eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells lack these.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells don't.' Prokaryotic cells lack a membrane-bound nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells have a true nucleus enclosed within a nuclear membrane. This distinction is a fundamental difference between the two cell types. Choice B is incorrect because eukaryotic cells are actually more complex than prokaryotic cells due to their membrane-bound organelles. Choice C is incorrect because prokaryotic cells lack membrane-bound organelles. Choice D is incorrect because eukaryotic cells have both a true nucleus and membrane-bound organelles, unlike prokaryotic cells. Understanding this key difference is crucial in understanding the diversity of cell types in living organisms.

2. Which hormone, produced by the pancreas, acts in opposition to insulin by increasing blood sugar levels?

A. Insulin
B. Glucagon
C. Cortisol
D. Thyroxine

Correct answer: b

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Glucagon. Glucagon is a hormone produced by the pancreas that acts in opposition to insulin. When blood sugar levels are low, glucagon stimulates the liver to convert stored glycogen into glucose, which raises blood sugar levels. Insulin, on the other hand, lowers blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake and storage of glucose. Cortisol, produced by the adrenal glands, plays a role in stress response and metabolism but does not directly regulate blood sugar levels. Thyroxine, produced by the thyroid gland, regulates metabolism but does not directly affect blood sugar levels. Therefore, glucagon is the hormone that acts in opposition to insulin by increasing blood sugar levels.

3. The layer of the skin responsible for new skin cell production is the:

A. Stratum corneum
B. Stratum basale
C. Stratum granulosum
D. Stratum spinosum

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Stratum basale. The stratum basale, also known as the basal layer or stratum germinativum, is the deepest layer of the epidermis responsible for new skin cell production through cell division. This layer contains stem cells that continuously divide and differentiate into keratinocytes, which eventually migrate to the outer layers of the epidermis. The stratum corneum (option A) is the outermost layer of the epidermis composed of dead skin cells. The stratum granulosum (option C) is the layer above the stratum basale where keratinocytes undergo changes in their structure. The stratum spinosum (option D) is a layer above the stratum basale where cells become interconnected by desmosomes. Therefore, the stratum basale is the primary layer responsible for the production of new skin cells.

4. The final sentence suggests that public discourse about AI should focus on

A. Celebrating the achievements of AI and promoting its widespread adoption in all sectors.
B. Criticizing the ethical shortcomings of existing AI systems and demanding stricter regulations.
C. Engaging in open and informed discussions about the potential benefits, risks, and responsible development of AI.
D. Focusing solely on the technical challenges of AI development and leaving ethical considerations to experts.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The emphasis on "ongoing public discourse" and "the future of AI in society" suggests a call for open discussions and collective responsibility, aligning with C.

5. Express 0.75 as a fraction.

A. 4/5
B. 3/4
C. 1/2
D. 1/4

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decimals can be represented as fractions where the denominator is a power of 10 (in this case, 10 raised to the power of -1, or 1/10th). So, 0.75 is equivalent to 7/10. We can simplify this fraction by dividing the numerator and denominator by 5, resulting in 3/4.