1. Which hormone plays a key role in stimulating the release of milk from breast tissue after childbirth?

A. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
B. Luteinizing hormone (LH)
C. Prolactin
D. Estrogen

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Prolactin. Prolactin is the hormone responsible for stimulating the production and release of milk from breast tissue after childbirth. It is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in lactation. FSH and LH are reproductive hormones involved in the menstrual cycle and ovulation, not milk production. Estrogen is a sex hormone that plays a role in the development of female reproductive organs. Therefore, the hormone that specifically stimulates milk release from breast tissue after childbirth is prolactin.

2. Which sentence uses the semicolon correctly?

A. The play was long; however, it was very entertaining.
B. The guests arrived; Sarah greeted them at the door.
C. John likes apples; Mary prefers oranges.
D. He was tired; he went to bed early.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Option B joins two independent clauses related to the same event.

3. Why are noble gas elements generally unreactive?

A. They are too large and cannot form bonds easily.
B. They lack valence electrons in their outermost shell.
C. They have strong bonds within their own molecules.
D. They have already achieved stable electron configurations.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: They have already achieved stable electron configurations. With completely filled outermost shells, noble gas elements have no need to gain or lose electrons, minimizing their tendency to participate in chemical reactions.

4. Choose the correct pronoun to complete the sentence: "Neither Michael nor Sarah ____ their homework finished yet."

A. has
B. have
C. are having
D. does have

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When referring to "neither" followed by two subjects, the verb agrees with the plural subject ("Sarah"). So, "have" is the correct answer.

5. Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found in the:

A. Center of long bones
B. Joints between bones
C. Muscle tissue
D. Walls of blood vessels

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue that is found in the joints between bones. It is a strong yet flexible tissue that cushions and supports the joints, allowing for smooth movement and reducing friction between bones. Cartilage is not typically found in the center of long bones, muscle tissue, or walls of blood vessels. Therefore, the correct answer is B: 'Joints between bones.'

6. Which hormone stimulates the release of calcium from bones and increases blood calcium levels?

A. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
B. Calcitonin
C. Growth hormone
D. Testosterone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Parathyroid hormone (PTH). PTH is produced by the parathyroid glands and plays a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the blood. When blood calcium levels are low, PTH is released to stimulate the release of calcium from bones, increase calcium absorption in the intestines, and reduce calcium loss in the kidneys. This process helps to maintain the necessary balance of calcium in the body. Calcitonin, on the other hand, works in opposition to PTH by decreasing blood calcium levels. Growth hormone primarily stimulates growth and development of tissues, while testosterone is a male sex hormone and does not directly impact calcium regulation.