1. Stretch marks occur when

A. The dermis layer becomes inflamed
B. The dermis layer becomes inflamed
C. The dermis layer tears due to rapid stretching
D. Sebaceous glands become clogged

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Stretch marks occur when the dermis layer tears due to rapid stretching. During periods of rapid growth or weight gain, the skin may stretch beyond its capacity, causing the dermis layer to tear and resulting in the formation of stretch marks. Inflammation or clogged sebaceous glands do not directly cause stretch marks, making options A, B, and D incorrect. It is important to understand the physiological process behind stretch marks to identify the correct answer.

2. Adipose tissue, also known as fat, serves multiple functions. Which of these is NOT a function of adipose tissue?

A. Insulation
B. Energy storage
C. Hormone production
D. Muscle movement

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Adipose tissue plays various essential roles in the body, including insulation to help regulate body temperature, energy storage by storing excess energy in the form of fat, and hormone production such as leptin and adiponectin. However, adipose tissue is not directly responsible for muscle movement. Muscles are primarily responsible for movement, while adipose tissue provides cushioning and support around organs. Therefore, option D, 'Muscle movement,' is the correct answer as it does not align with the functions of adipose tissue.

3. The fatty sheath that insulates some nerve fibers and speeds up signal transmission is called the:

A. Myelin sheath
B. Dura mater
C. Pia mater
D. Arachnoid mater

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Myelin sheath. The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that surrounds and insulates certain nerve fibers. It acts as an electrical insulator, speeding up the transmission of nerve impulses along the axon. This insulation helps to prevent signal loss or interference, allowing for faster and more efficient communication between neurons. The other options, B: Dura mater, C: Pia mater, and D: Arachnoid mater, are all layers of the meninges that protect the brain and spinal cord, but they do not play a role in insulating nerve fibers for signal transmission like the myelin sheath does.

4. The neutral theory of molecular evolution proposes that:

A. Most mutations in DNA are selectively neutral and do not affect an organism's fitness.
B. All mutations are beneficial and contribute to the adaptation of a population.
C. The rate of evolution is primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures.
D. Genetic drift plays a negligible role in shaping genetic variation within populations.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) The neutral theory of molecular evolution, proposed by Motoo Kimura in the 1960s, suggests that the majority of mutations that occur in DNA are selectively neutral, meaning they do not have a significant impact on an organism's fitness. These neutral mutations are not subject to natural selection and are allowed to accumulate in populations over time. This theory helps explain the high levels of genetic variation observed within populations. B) Option B is incorrect because not all mutations are beneficial. Mutations can be neutral, harmful, or beneficial, and the neutral theory specifically focuses on the idea that many mutations are neutral in their effects. C) Option C is incorrect because the neutral theory suggests that evolution is not primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures. Instead, it emphasizes the role of genetic drift and the accumulation of neutral mutations in shaping genetic variation. D) Option D is incorrect because

5. The network of vessels and ducts responsible for draining excess fluid and waste products from tissues is the:

A. Circulatory system
B. Digestive system
C. Lymphatic system
D. Respiratory system

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and ducts that play a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance in the body by draining excess fluid and waste products from tissues. Unlike the circulatory system (A), which primarily transports blood, the lymphatic system is specifically designed for this drainage function. The digestive system (B) is responsible for breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, while the respiratory system (D) is involved in the exchange of gases. Therefore, the lymphatic system is the correct answer for this question as it is uniquely tasked with managing tissue fluid balance and waste removal.

6. 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.