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. Which of the following glands is NOT directly controlled by the pituitary gland?

A. Thyroid gland
B. Adrenal glands
C. Pancreas (islets of Langerhans)
D. Parathyroid glands

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The pituitary gland is often referred to as the 'master gland' because it secretes hormones that control the functions of other endocrine glands. The thyroid gland (A), adrenal glands (B), and parathyroid glands (D) are directly controlled by the pituitary gland through the release of specific hormones. However, the pancreas, specifically the islets of Langerhans (C), is not directly controlled by the pituitary gland. The pancreas is regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which are not secreted by the pituitary gland. Therefore, option C is the correct answer as it is not directly influenced by the pituitary gland's hormonal regulation.

3. The gland located on top of the kidneys responsible for regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance is the:

A. Thyroid gland
B. Pituitary gland
C. Adrenal gland
D. Parathyroid gland

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Adrenal gland. The adrenal glands are located on top of the kidneys and play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure and electrolyte balance by secreting hormones such as aldosterone and cortisol. The thyroid gland (A) regulates metabolism, the pituitary gland (B) controls other endocrine glands, and the parathyroid gland (D) regulates calcium levels in the blood. Therefore, the adrenal gland is specifically responsible for the functions mentioned in the question, making it the correct choice.

4. The muscular diaphragm plays a vital role in respiration. When it contracts, it:

A. Increases lung volume for inhalation
B. Decreases lung volume for exhalation
C. Filters dust and particles from inhaled air
D. Produces mucus to lubricate the airways

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is a crucial muscle involved in respiration. When the diaphragm contracts, it flattens and moves downwards, increasing the volume in the thoracic cavity. This expansion creates a negative pressure in the lungs, causing air to rush in during inhalation. Therefore, option A, 'Increases lung volume for inhalation,' is the correct answer. The diaphragm's contraction facilitates the breathing process by creating space for the lungs to expand and take in air, making it essential for proper respiration.

5. What is the main point of the passage?

A. Climate change is a myth and does not pose any significant threat to the planet.
B. The negative consequences of climate change are inevitable and irreversible.
C. Human actions are the primary cause of climate change, and global efforts are needed to address it.
D. Technological advancements alone can provide quick and easy solutions to the climate crisis.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The passage clearly identifies human activities as the cause of climate change and emphasizes the need for global action, aligning with C.

6. What is the involuntary process of emptying the bladder called?

A. Filtration
B. Micturition
C. Reabsorption
D. Excretion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Micturition.' Micturition, also known as urination, is the involuntary process of emptying the bladder. During micturition, the bladder contracts while the sphincter muscles relax, allowing urine to be expelled from the body. Filtration (A) is the process of separating substances based on their size as they pass through a filter. Reabsorption (C) refers to the process of reclaiming substances from the filtrate in the renal tubules back into the bloodstream. Excretion (D) is the process of eliminating waste products from the body through urine, feces, sweat, or other means. Therefore, micturition is the specific term that describes the act of emptying the bladder involuntarily.