1. Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts are called:

A. Exocrine glands
B. Endocrine glands
C. Apocrine glands
D. Merocrine glands

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Endocrine glands. Endocrine glands are specialized glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream, which then travel to target organs or tissues to regulate various physiological processes. Unlike exocrine glands (choice A), which secrete their products through ducts to specific locations, endocrine glands secrete hormones into the blood for more widespread and systemic effects. Apocrine glands (choice C) release a portion of their cell contents along with the secretions, while merocrine glands (choice D) release their products through exocytosis without any loss of cell material. Therefore, in this case, endocrine glands best describe the glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts.

2. What skin condition is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches?

A. Eczema
B. Psoriasis
C. Melanoma
D. Keloid

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Eczema. Eczema is a common skin condition that is characterized by red, itchy, and inflamed patches on the skin. It is often triggered by environmental factors or allergies and can vary in severity. Psoriasis (option B) is also a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches on the skin, but it is typically thicker and more silver or white in color compared to eczema. Melanoma (option C) is a type of skin cancer that usually presents as a new mole or a changing mole on the skin, rather than red, itchy patches. Keloid (option D) is a raised scar that can result from an overgrowth of scar tissue. Therefore, the most appropriate answer to this question is A: Eczema, based on the description of red, itchy, and inflamed patches.

3. A study finds a correlation between increased ice cream consumption and lower crime rates. What is the MOST likely explanation for this observation?

A. Ice cream directly reduces criminal behavior.
B. People who commit crimes eat less ice cream.
C. A third factor, like hot weather, influences both.
D. The study design is flawed and the connection is false.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The most likely explanation for the correlation between increased ice cream consumption and lower crime rates is a third factor influencing both variables. In this case, hot weather could be the common factor as both ice cream consumption and crime rates tend to increase during warmer months. This scenario illustrates the importance of considering confounding variables when interpreting correlations.

4. What is the function of the Golgi apparatus?

A. Breaking down and recycling cellular waste
B. Packaging and transporting proteins and lipids
C. Generating energy through cellular respiration
D. Translating DNA into proteins

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Packaging and transporting proteins and lipids. The Golgi apparatus plays a crucial role in processing, packaging, and distributing proteins and lipids synthesized by the cell. It modifies these molecules and directs them to their appropriate destinations within the cell or for secretion outside the cell. This function is essential for maintaining the proper functioning of the cell and coordinating various cellular processes. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they describe functions carried out by other cellular organelles, highlighting the specificity and importance of the Golgi apparatus in protein and lipid trafficking.

5. The T wave on an ECG corresponds to:

A. Atrial depolarization
B. Ventricular depolarization
C. Atrial repolarization
D. Ventricular repolarization

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The T wave on an ECG corresponds to ventricular repolarization. During this phase, the ventricles are resetting electrically after contraction, preparing for the next heartbeat. Atrial depolarization is represented by the P wave, ventricular depolarization by the QRS complex, and atrial repolarization is typically hidden within the QRS complex. Therefore, option D, 'Ventricular repolarization,' is the correct choice when identifying the electrical activity represented by the T wave on an ECG.

6. A decorative globe has a diameter of 25cm. What is its total surface area?

A. 1570 sq cm
B. 1963 sq cm
C. 2513 sq cm
D. 3142 sq cm

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Use the formula for surface area of a sphere: 4 * Ï€ * (radius)^2, where radius is half the diameter. Calculate the radius (12.5cm) and substitute: 4 * Ï€ * (12.5cm)^2 â‰ˆ 1963 sq cm.