1. Skeletal muscles are attached to bones by tough connective tissues called

A. Ligaments
B. Tendons
C. Cartilage
D. Fascia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Tendons. Skeletal muscles are connected to bones by tendons, which are tough connective tissues that transmit the force generated by the muscle to the bone, allowing movement. Ligaments (A) connect bone to bone and provide stability to joints. Cartilage (C) is a smooth, firm tissue that covers the surface of bones at joints, reducing friction and absorbing shock. Fascia (D) is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles and other structures, providing support and protection.

2. What is the primary function of DNA polymerase?

A. Packaging DNA
B. Replicating DNA
C. Transcribing DNA
D. Translating mRNA

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: DNA polymerase is an enzyme responsible for synthesizing new DNA strands during DNA replication. It adds nucleotides to the growing DNA strand based on the template provided by the existing DNA strand. This process ensures that genetic information is accurately copied and passed on to daughter cells during cell division. Packaging DNA (option A) refers to the coiling and organization of DNA into chromatin, a process involving histones and other proteins. Transcribing DNA (option C) involves the synthesis of RNA from a DNA template, a process carried out by RNA polymerase. Translating mRNA (option D) refers to the process of protein synthesis where the information encoded in mRNA is used to assemble amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

3. The defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of:

A. Neutrons in its nucleus
B. Electrons surrounding the nucleus
C. Protons in its nucleus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Protons in its nucleus.' An element is defined by the number of protons in its nucleus, known as the atomic number. This number determines the element's identity and its placement on the periodic table. Neutrons and electrons play important roles in an atom, but they do not define the element itself. Neutrons contribute to the atom's mass, while electrons are involved in chemical reactions and bonding. Therefore, the number of protons is the defining characteristic of an element.

4. What is the main function of vacuoles in plant cells?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store water, enzymes, and waste products

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: Vacuoles in plant cells primarily function as storage organelles. They store water, enzymes, pigments, and waste products. Vacuoles help maintain turgor pressure within the cell, which provides structural support for the plant cell. While vacuoles can also be involved in transporting substances within the cell, their main function is storage. Synthesizing proteins and lipids is primarily carried out by other organelles such as the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus.

5. Which vitamin is essential for collagen production, a key component of connective tissues?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin C
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vitamin C. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which is a key component of connective tissues. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and strength to various tissues in the body, including skin, bones, and tendons. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in the synthesis of collagen by acting as a cofactor for enzymes involved in collagen formation. Deficiency in Vitamin C can lead to impaired collagen production, resulting in weakened connective tissues and potential health issues like scurvy. While Vitamin A, D, and E are important for various bodily functions, Vitamin C specifically stands out for its vital role in collagen synthesis.