1. What is a lifestyle practice that can weaken the immune system?

A. Getting enough sleep
B. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
C. Managing stress levels
D. Frequent smoking

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Frequent smoking is a lifestyle practice that can weaken the immune system. Smoking has been linked to various health issues, including suppressing the immune system's ability to fight off infections and diseases. The chemicals in tobacco smoke can impair immune function, making smokers more susceptible to illnesses. On the other hand, getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and managing stress levels are practices that support a healthy immune system, rather than weaken it.

2. What type of nutrients require minimal digestion before absorption?

A. Carbohydrates
B. Proteins
C. Fats
D. Vitamins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates require digestion by enzymes in the mouth, stomach, and small intestine before they can be broken down into simple sugars for absorption. B) Proteins: Proteins need to be broken down into amino acids by stomach acid and digestive enzymes in the stomach and small intestine before they can be absorbed. C) Fats: Fats require bile from the gallbladder to emulsify them into smaller droplets for enzymes to break them down into fatty acids and glycerol for absorption. D) Vitamins: Vitamins are organic compounds that are already in a form that can be readily absorbed by the body without extensive digestion. They are absorbed directly into the bloodstream from the small intestine and do not require significant breakdown before absorption.

3. What is the function of ribosomes?

A. Packaging and transporting proteins
B. Storing genetic material
C. Controlling cell division
D. Synthesizing proteins

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Synthesizing proteins.' Ribosomes are the cellular organelles responsible for protein synthesis. They read the mRNA and assemble amino acids into proteins according to the genetic information encoded in the mRNA. This process is crucial for building and maintaining cellular structures, enzymes, and various other proteins essential for the functioning of the cell. Options A, B, and C do not accurately describe the primary function of ribosomes, making them incorrect choices for this question.

4. Which type of transport allows for the movement of large molecules, such as proteins and polysaccharides, across the cell membrane?

A. Endocytosis
B. Exocytosis
C. Active transport
D. Facilitated diffusion

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) Endocytosis is the process by which cells engulf large molecules or particles by wrapping the cell membrane around them to form a vesicle that is brought into the cell. This mechanism allows for the movement of large molecules, such as proteins and polysaccharides, across the cell membrane. B) Exocytosis is the opposite process of endocytosis, where cells release large molecules or particles by fusing vesicles with the cell membrane to expel their contents out of the cell. C) Active transport is a process that requires energy to move molecules across the cell membrane against their concentration gradient. While active transport can move large molecules, it is not specifically designed for the transport of proteins and polysaccharides. D) Facilitated diffusion is a type of passive transport that involves the movement of molecules across the cell membrane with the help of transport proteins. While facilitated diffusion can assist in the movement of

5. Which of the following hormones is produced by the adrenal medulla and prepares the body for a stressful situation?

A. Testosterone
B. Cortisol
C. Epinephrine (adrenaline)
D. Growth hormone

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Epinephrine (adrenaline). Epinephrine is produced by the adrenal medulla and is responsible for preparing the body for a stressful situation, often referred to as the 'fight or flight' response. Testosterone is a hormone produced by the testes in males and in smaller amounts by the ovaries in females, responsible for male sexual characteristics. Cortisol is produced by the adrenal cortex and plays a role in regulating metabolism and immune response. Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and is essential for growth, cell repair, and metabolism. Therefore, epinephrine is the hormone specifically produced by the adrenal medulla to prepare the body for stress.

6. Which process involves the body's natural defense against inhaled dust and allergens?

A. Cellular respiration
B. Gas exchange
C. Ciliary action
D. Bronchoconstriction

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Ciliary action. Cilia are tiny hair-like structures lining the respiratory tract that help trap and remove inhaled dust and allergens. When these particles are trapped in the mucus produced by the cilia, the cilia beat in a coordinated fashion to move the mucus and its trapped particles out of the respiratory system, preventing them from reaching the lungs. Cellular respiration (A) is the process by which cells generate energy from nutrients, not a defense mechanism. Gas exchange (B) refers to the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, not a defense mechanism. Bronchoconstriction (D) is the narrowing of the airways, often in response to triggers like allergens, but it is not the body's natural defense mechanism against inhaled dust and allergens.