1. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures found along lymphatic vessels. What is their primary function?

A. To store excess lymph fluid
B. To produce red blood cells
C. To filter lymph and fight infection
D. To transport lymph to the heart

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Lymph nodes are crucial components of the immune system. Their primary function is to filter lymph, which is a clear fluid containing white blood cells, and to fight off infections. Lymph nodes contain specialized cells that help trap and destroy pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, that may be present in the lymph fluid. This process helps to prevent the spread of infections throughout the body and plays a key role in maintaining overall immune function. Therefore, option C, 'To filter lymph and fight infection,' is the most appropriate description of the primary function of lymph nodes.

2. Which word best completes the sentence: "The scientist's breakthrough was met with _____ applause."

A. thunderous
B. scattered
C. polite
D. hesitant

Correct answer: A

Rationale: "Thunderous" emphasizes the intensity and volume of the applause, fitting the significance of the breakthrough.

3. A salt solution that conducts electricity well is most likely

A. A saturated solution
B. A concentrated solution of a strong electrolyte
C. A dilute solution of a weak acid
D. A mixture of a neutral compound and water

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "A concentrated solution of a strong electrolyte." Strong electrolytes completely dissociate into ions in solution, thereby increasing the conductivity of the solution. Concentrated solutions have a higher amount of dissolved solute particles, which leads to more ions available for conducting electricity. In contrast, saturated solutions may contain undissolved solute, limiting the number of ions in solution. Dilute solutions have fewer ions and weak acids only partially dissociate, reducing conductivity. A neutral compound and water do not provide ions for conducting electricity. Therefore, a concentrated solution of a strong electrolyte is most likely to conduct electricity well due to the high concentration of ions present.

4. Glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts are called:

A. Exocrine glands
B. Endocrine glands
C. Apocrine glands
D. Merocrine glands

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Endocrine glands. Endocrine glands are specialized glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream, which then travel to target organs or tissues to regulate various physiological processes. Unlike exocrine glands (choice A), which secrete their products through ducts to specific locations, endocrine glands secrete hormones into the blood for more widespread and systemic effects. Apocrine glands (choice C) release a portion of their cell contents along with the secretions, while merocrine glands (choice D) release their products through exocytosis without any loss of cell material. Therefore, in this case, endocrine glands best describe the glands that release hormones directly into the bloodstream without ducts.

5. What is the relationship between work and energy?

A. Work is the rate of energy transfer
B. Work and energy are the same concepts
C. Work is the result of energy
D. Work changes an object's energy from one form to another

Correct answer: d

Rationale: Work is the process that changes an object's energy from one form to another or transfers it from one object to another.

6. What is the purpose of the spindle apparatus in cell division?

A. To separate sister chromatids
B. To move chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell
C. To form a new nuclear envelope around each daughter cell
D. To synthesize new DNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The spindle apparatus is a structure composed of microtubules that plays a crucial role in cell division (mitosis and meiosis). Its main purpose is to ensure the proper separation and distribution of chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell during cell division. This process is essential for the formation of two genetically identical daughter cells in mitosis or four haploid daughter cells in meiosis. Option A is incorrect because the separation of sister chromatids specifically refers to the role of the kinetochore fibers within the spindle apparatus. Option C is incorrect because the formation of a new nuclear envelope occurs after the chromosomes have been properly segregated. Option D is incorrect because DNA synthesis does not occur within the spindle apparatus; it takes place during the S phase of the cell cycle.