1. What is the main consequence of a malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones?

A. Increased energy levels and weight loss
B. Decreased heart rate and body temperature
C. Enhanced muscle growth and bone development
D. Faster metabolism and heightened alertness

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Decreased heart rate and body temperature.' When the thyroid gland produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones (hypothyroidism), it can lead to a decrease in metabolic rate, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and feeling cold. A lower metabolic rate can slow down heart rate and decrease body temperature. The other options (A, C, D) are not characteristic of hypothyroidism. Increased energy levels and weight loss, enhanced muscle growth and bone development, and faster metabolism and heightened alertness are more commonly associated with hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland produces excess hormones.

2. A ball is thrown horizontally off a cliff with a speed of 10 m/s. What is the horizontal distance the ball travels before hitting the ground?

A. 10 m
B. 20m
C. 30m
D. Cannot be determined without knowing the height of the cliff

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When a ball is thrown horizontally, its horizontal velocity remains constant throughout its motion. The time taken to hit the ground is determined by the vertical motion, which is independent of the horizontal velocity. Therefore, the horizontal distance traveled by the ball is determined by the horizontal velocity and the time taken to hit the ground. In this case, the horizontal distance is calculated as distance = velocity × time = 10 m/s × time. Since the horizontal velocity is 10 m/s and the time taken to hit the ground is determined by the vertical motion, the horizontal distance traveled by the ball is 10 m/s × time. Without knowing the height of the cliff, we can still determine the horizontal distance traveled by the ball, which is 10 m/s × time.

3. What type of genetic variation is caused by changes in the DNA sequence?

A. Epigenetic variation
B. Phenotypic variation
C. Genotypic variation
D. Behavioral variation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Epigenetic variation refers to changes in gene expression that do not involve alterations in the DNA sequence itself. These changes can be influenced by environmental factors. B) Phenotypic variation refers to differences in observable traits or characteristics of an organism, which can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. C) Genotypic variation is caused by changes in the DNA sequence, such as mutations or genetic recombination. These changes directly impact the genetic information carried by an organism. D) Behavioral variation refers to differences in behavior among individuals of the same species, which can be influenced by genetic, environmental, and experiential factors.

4. What is the meaning of the idiom "to bite off more than one can chew"?

A. To be overly confident
B. To take on more than one can handle
C. To be easily discouraged
D. To be meticulous in planning

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The idiom warns against undertaking a task exceeding one's capabilities.

5. 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.

6. Which of the following is the MOST common symptom of angina pectoris, a condition related to insufficient blood flow to the heart?

A. Fever and chills.
B. Chest pain or discomfort.
C. Sudden onset of severe shortness of breath
D. Numbness or tingling in the extremities

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Chest pain or discomfort. Angina pectoris is characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. This pain is often described as a squeezing, pressure, heaviness, or tightness in the chest. While other symptoms like fever, chills, shortness of breath, numbness, or tingling in the extremities can occur in various conditions, chest pain is the hallmark symptom of angina pectoris. It is important to recognize this symptom as it may indicate an underlying heart issue and prompt medical attention is crucial.