1. The moon-shaped white structures at the base of fingernails are called:

A. Lunulae
B. Cuticle
C. Hyponychium
D. Matrix

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, "Lunulae." The moon-shaped white structures at the base of fingernails are called lunulae. These are most visible on the thumb and are the visible part of the nail matrix. The lunulae appear white because the nail matrix underneath is not visible due to its thickness. Cuticle (B) refers to the thin layer of skin at the base of the nail, hyponychium (C) is the skin located under the free edge of the nail, and matrix (D) is the tissue at the base of the nail where growth occurs. Therefore, the correct term for the moon-shaped white structures is lunulae.

2. Aseptic meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by:

A. Bacteria
B. Viruses
C. Fungi
D. Parasites

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Aseptic meningitis is typically caused by viral infections, such as enteroviruses (e.g., coxsackievirus, echovirus), herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and others. These viruses can infect the meninges, leading to inflammation and symptoms of meningitis without the presence of bacteria. While bacterial meningitis is a serious and life-threatening condition, aseptic meningitis caused by viruses is usually less severe and has a better prognosis. Fungi and parasites are less common causes of meningitis compared to bacteria and viruses.

3. Which of the following is an example of a chemical change?

A. Dissolving sugar in water
B. Boiling water
C. Rusting iron
D. Crushing ice

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rusting is a chemical reaction where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide (rust).

4. Muscle tissue is responsible for movement. Which type of muscle tissue is found in the heart?

A. Skeletal muscle
B. Smooth muscle
C. Cardiac muscle
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Cardiac muscle. Cardiac muscle is a specialized type of muscle tissue found in the heart. Unlike skeletal muscle, which is under voluntary control, and smooth muscle, which is found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, cardiac muscle is involuntary and responsible for the rhythmic contractions of the heart to pump blood throughout the body. Therefore, cardiac muscle is the specific type of muscle tissue found in the heart, making it the correct choice for this question.

5. During vigorous exercise, the respiratory rate increases to:

A. Meet the increased demand for oxygen in working muscles
B. Eliminate excess carbon dioxide more slowly
C. Conserve energy for physical activity
D. Decrease the amount of oxygen delivered to the body

Correct answer: A

Rationale: During vigorous exercise, the respiratory rate increases to meet the increased demand for oxygen in working muscles. When we exercise vigorously, our muscles require more oxygen to produce energy through aerobic metabolism. Increasing the respiratory rate allows more oxygen to be taken in and transported to the muscles via the bloodstream to support this increased demand. Option A is correct because it accurately reflects the physiological response of the respiratory system to vigorous exercise, ensuring that working muscles receive sufficient oxygen for optimal performance.

6. Which of the following is NOT a method of sterilization?

A. Autoclave
B. UV light
C. Chemical disinfectants
D. Boiling water

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Autoclave: An autoclave is a method of sterilization that uses high pressure and steam to kill microorganisms, making it an effective way to sterilize equipment and materials. B) UV light: UV light is a method of sterilization that damages the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing infections. C) Chemical disinfectants: Chemical disinfectants are used to kill or inactivate microorganisms on surfaces, but they may not always achieve sterilization, which is the complete destruction of all microorganisms. D) Boiling water: Boiling water is a method of disinfection rather than sterilization. While boiling water can kill many microorganisms, it may not be effective against all types of bacteria, viruses, and spores, making it unsuitable for achieving sterilization. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Boiling water, as it is not a method of sterilization