1. 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.

2. Which word choice best fits the blank: "Her research paper was riddled with _____ errors."

A. flagrant (obvious and inexcusable)
B. cursory (superficial)
C. innocuous (harmless)
D. meticulous (carefully detailed)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option A "flagrant," emphasizes the severity and noticeable nature of the errors.

3. What is the main function of transition words and phrases in writing?

A. To add unnecessary embellishments and fluff.
B. To emphasize specific words or phrases in the text.
C. To connect ideas smoothly and guide the reader's flow.
D. To introduce opposing viewpoints and counterarguments.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Transition words and phrases bridge ideas, create logical flow, and enhance the coherence of your writing.

4. Which of the following minerals is important for bone health and is stored in bones by the skeletal system?

A. Iron
B. Sodium
C. Calcium
D. Magnesium

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Calcium. Calcium is essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. It is a key mineral stored in bones by the skeletal system, where it provides structural support and strength. Adequate calcium intake is crucial for preventing bone diseases like osteoporosis and ensuring proper bone formation and density. Iron (A), Sodium (B), and Magnesium (D) are important minerals for various bodily functions but are not primarily responsible for bone health and storage in bones by the skeletal system.

5. What is the importance of RNA splicing?

A. Removes introns from the mRNA molecule
B. Adds the poly-A tail to the mRNA molecule
C. Activates the mRNA molecule for translation
D. Modifies the structure of the protein

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) RNA splicing is a crucial process in gene expression where non-coding regions called introns are removed from the pre-mRNA molecule, and the remaining coding regions called exons are joined together to form the mature mRNA molecule. This process ensures that only the protein-coding sequences are retained in the mRNA for translation, allowing for the production of functional proteins. Therefore, option A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the importance of RNA splicing in generating mature mRNA molecules for protein synthesis. B) Adding the poly-A tail to the mRNA molecule is a post-transcriptional modification that occurs after RNA splicing and is not directly related to the process of removing introns. C) Activating the mRNA molecule for translation is typically achieved through the addition of a 5' cap and the poly-A tail, rather than through RNA splicing. D) Modifying the structure of the protein is not directly

6. What is the role of RNA interference in silencing genes?

A. Increases protein production
B. Promotes gene mutation
C. Inhibits the expression of specific genes
D. Repairs damaged DNA

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: RNA interference (RNAi) is a biological process that involves the silencing of gene expression by inhibiting the translation of mRNA or by degrading mRNA molecules. This mechanism plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression and can be used to selectively silence specific genes. By interfering with the expression of specific genes, RNAi can downregulate protein production from those genes. Therefore, option C, "Inhibits the expression of specific genes," is the correct role of RNA interference in silencing genes.