1. What is the name of the muscular ring that controls the passage of food from the esophagus to the stomach?

A. Pyloric sphincter
B. Cardiac sphincter
C. Ileocecal valve
D. Sphincter of Oddi

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cardiac sphincter. The cardiac sphincter, also known as the lower esophageal sphincter, is the muscular ring located at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach. It controls the passage of food from the esophagus into the stomach by opening and closing to prevent reflux of stomach contents back into the esophagus. The other options are incorrect: A) The pyloric sphincter is located at the junction between the stomach and the small intestine, controlling the passage of food from the stomach into the small intestine. C) The ileocecal valve is located between the small intestine and the large intestine. D) The Sphincter of Oddi is located in the duodenum and regulates the flow of bile and pancreatic juice into the small intestine. Therefore, the correct answer is B because it specifically relates to the passage of food from the esophagus to the stomach.

2. What property of a substance remains constant regardless of changes in gravity?

A. Mass
B. Weight
C. Volume
D. Density

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Mass is a measure of the amount of matter in an object and remains constant regardless of changes in gravity. Weight, on the other hand, is a measure of the gravitational force acting on an object and varies with changes in gravity. Volume is the amount of space occupied by an object and can change with changes in gravity. Density is the mass of a substance per unit volume and can also change with changes in gravity if the volume changes.

3. The basic unit of communication in the nervous system is called a:

A. Neuron
B. Astrocyte
C. Neurotransmitter
D. Synapse

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The basic unit of communication in the nervous system is a neuron. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit information through electrical and chemical signals. They form complex networks to relay messages throughout the body. Astrocytes are support cells that help maintain the environment around neurons. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that transmit signals between neurons at synapses. A synapse is a junction between two neurons where communication occurs. However, the primary unit responsible for communication in the nervous system is the neuron, making it the correct answer.

4. Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of lactose intolerance?

A. Gas
B. Bloating
C. Diarrhea
D. Nausea

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Gas: Gas is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. When lactose is not properly digested, it can ferment in the colon, leading to the production of gas. B) Bloating: Bloating is another common symptom of lactose intolerance. The buildup of gas in the digestive system can cause bloating and discomfort. C) Diarrhea: Diarrhea is a common symptom of lactose intolerance. When lactose is not broken down in the small intestine, it can draw excess water into the colon, resulting in diarrhea. D) Nausea: Nausea is not a common symptom of lactose intolerance. While some individuals may experience mild stomach discomfort or cramps, nausea is not typically associated with lactose intolerance.

5. What is the protective fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord?

A. Blood
B. Cerebrospinal fluid
C. Myelin sheath
D. Insulin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid acts as a cushion for the brain and spinal cord, providing protection from impacts. Blood is essential for transporting nutrients and oxygen, but it does not directly surround or protect these vital nervous system structures. Myelin sheath is a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers, not the fluid surrounding the nervous system. Insulin is a hormone involved in regulating blood sugar levels and is not related to protecting the brain and spinal cord.

6. Which of the following substances is typically a good conductor of electricity when dissolved in water?

A. Sugar
B. Sodium chloride
C. Olive oil
D. Oxygen gas

Correct answer: b

Rationale: Ionic compounds like sodium chloride dissociate into ions in water, making the solution conductive. The other choices do not typically conduct electricity in water.