1. The muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach is lined with a mucous membrane. What is the main function of this mucous membrane?

A. Secretion of digestive enzymes
B. Absorption of nutrients
C. Lubrication and protection
D. Storage of bile

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Lubrication and protection. The mucous membrane lining the esophagus serves to provide lubrication for food as it travels from the mouth to the stomach, making it easier to swallow. Additionally, the mucous membrane protects the esophageal tissue from damage caused by the passage of food and liquids. This function is crucial in preventing irritation and inflammation of the esophagus, ensuring smooth and efficient digestion process. The mucous membrane does not secrete digestive enzymes (A), absorb nutrients (B), or store bile (D), as those functions are carried out by other digestive organs.

2. She decides to have a decentralized staffing system. Which of the following is an advantage

A. greater control of activities
B. Conserves time
C. Compatible with computerization
D. Promotes better interpersonal relationship

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'greater control of activities.' Having a decentralized staffing system allows for the delegation of decision-making to lower levels of the organization, which can result in greater control over activities. This can lead to quicker responses to issues and better alignment with specific departmental needs. Options B, C, and D do not directly relate to the advantage of a decentralized staffing system. While conserving time, compatibility with computerization, and promoting better interpersonal relationships are important considerations in staffing decisions, they do not specifically align with the advantage of greater control that a decentralized system provides.

3. The primary source of energy entering most ecosystems is:

A. Chemical energy stored in bonds
B. Thermal energy from the Earth's core
C. Light energy from the sun
D. Kinetic energy from wind and water

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: In most ecosystems, the primary source of energy is sunlight. This energy is captured by plants and other photosynthetic organisms through the process of photosynthesis. These organisms convert light energy into chemical energy stored in the bonds of organic molecules, such as glucose. This stored chemical energy is then passed on to other organisms in the ecosystem through the food chain, making sunlight the fundamental source of energy for most ecosystems. Thermal energy from the Earth's core (option B) is not a primary source of energy for ecosystems, as it is not readily accessible to most organisms. Kinetic energy from wind and water (option D) can play a role in some ecosystems, but it is not the primary source of energy. Chemical energy stored in bonds (option A) is a form of energy that is derived ultimately from the sun through photosynthesis.

4. Which part of the brain is responsible for processing vision?

A. Occipital lobe
B. Frontal lobe
C. Temporal lobe
D. Parietal lobe

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Occipital lobe. The occipital lobe is located at the back of the brain and is primarily responsible for processing visual information. It contains the primary visual cortex, which receives and interprets visual signals from the eyes. The frontal lobe (B) is involved in higher cognitive functions such as decision-making and problem-solving. The temporal lobe (C) plays a role in processing auditory information and memory. The parietal lobe (D) is responsible for functions like spatial awareness and sensory information processing, but not specifically vision. Therefore, the occipital lobe is the correct choice for the brain region responsible for processing vision.

5. What type of joint allows for the most movement?

A. Ball-and-socket joint (shoulder)
B. Hinge joint (elbow)
C. Fibrocartilaginous joint (wrists)
D. Suture joint (skull)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A ball-and-socket joint allows for the most movement among the options provided. This type of joint is characterized by a rounded end of one bone fitting into a cup-like socket of another bone, allowing for a wide range of motion in multiple directions. The shoulder joint is a prime example of a ball-and-socket joint, enabling movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. In contrast, a hinge joint (option B) like the elbow primarily allows for movement in one plane (flexion and extension). Fibrocartilaginous joints (option C) like the wrists have limited movement due to the presence of cartilage between the bones. Suture joints (option D) in the skull are immovable joints that provide structural support but do not allow for significant movement.