1. Which term describes the functional unit of a skeletal muscle responsible for muscle contraction?

A. Myofibril
B. Sarcomere
C. Tendon
D. Myoglobin

Correct answer: b

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sarcomere. A sarcomere is the functional unit of a skeletal muscle responsible for muscle contraction. It is made up of overlapping filaments of actin and myosin proteins. Myofibrils are long, cylindrical structures within muscle cells that contain sarcomeres. Tendons are tough bands of fibrous connective tissue that connect muscles to bones and facilitate movement. Myoglobin is a protein found in muscle cells that stores oxygen for muscle use during exercise. Therefore, the sarcomere is specifically responsible for muscle contraction, making it the correct answer in this question.

2. Which of the following is NOT a recognized mode of natural selection?

A. Directional selection (favoring one extreme trait value on a spectrum)
B. Disruptive selection (favoring both extreme trait values on a spectrum)
C. Stabilizing selection (favoring the average trait value on a spectrum)
D. Sexual selection (selection based on mate choice that influences reproductive success)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Directional selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where one extreme trait value on a spectrum is favored over others. This can lead to a shift in the average trait value over time. B) Disruptive selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where both extreme trait values on a spectrum are favored over the average trait value. This can lead to the population splitting into two distinct groups. C) Stabilizing selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where the average trait value on a spectrum is favored over extreme values. This can lead to a reduction in genetic diversity within a population. D) Sexual selection is not a mode of natural selection in the traditional sense, as it involves mate choice and competition for mates rather than direct selection pressure on traits that affect survival and reproduction in the environment. Sexual selection can lead to the evolution of traits that enhance an individual's ability to attract

3. The intricate network of blood vessels responsible for transporting blood throughout the body is the:

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Circulatory system. The circulatory system is responsible for transporting blood, oxygen, nutrients, and other substances throughout the body. It consists of the heart, blood vessels (arteries, veins, and capillaries), and blood. The lymphatic system (A) is a separate system that helps to maintain fluid balance in the body and plays a role in the immune response. The nervous system (C) is responsible for transmitting signals between different parts of the body and the brain. The respiratory system (D) is responsible for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the body through breathing. In this question, the circulatory system is specifically mentioned as the network of blood vessels responsible for transporting blood, making it the correct answer.

4. What is the process of making copies of DNA called?

A. Transcription
B. Translation
C. Replication
D. DNA repair

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: A) Transcription is the process of synthesizing RNA from a DNA template. It involves the creation of mRNA molecules from a DNA template. B) Translation is the process of synthesizing proteins from mRNA. During translation, the genetic code carried by mRNA is decoded to produce a specific sequence of amino acids, forming a protein. C) Replication is the process of making copies of DNA. This process occurs before cell division and ensures that each daughter cell receives an identical copy of the genetic material. D) DNA repair is a cellular mechanism that corrects errors in DNA that arise due to various factors such as exposure to mutagens or mistakes during DNA replication. It is essential for maintaining the integrity of the genetic material.

5. Which of the following is the main organ responsible for producing bile?

A. Liver
B. Gallbladder
C. Pancreas
D. Stomach

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The liver is the main organ responsible for producing bile. Bile is a greenish-yellow fluid that is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. The gallbladder releases bile into the small intestine when needed to aid in the digestion of fats. The pancreas is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and insulin, not bile. The stomach is primarily involved in the digestion of food through the secretion of gastric juices.

6. Why are isotopes of the same element chemically similar?

A. They have the same number of protons.
B. They have the same number of electrons.
C. Their chemical properties are identical.
D. They share the same electron configuration.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: They have the same number of protons. This determines the element's identity and its interactions with other elements, leading to similar chemical behavior, even if the number of neutrons differs.