1. What disease is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting?

A. Muscular dystrophy
B. Myositis
C. Fibromyalgia
D. Carpal tunnel syndrome

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscular dystrophy. Muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting over time. It primarily affects skeletal muscles, leading to difficulties in movement and muscle function. Myositis is an inflammatory condition affecting the muscles, but it may not always result in progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue, not necessarily progressive muscle weakness. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression neuropathy affecting the median nerve in the wrist, leading to symptoms like numbness and tingling in the hand, but it does not cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting like muscular dystrophy does.

2. An Egyptian model pyramid has a square base side length of 10cm and a height of 8cm. What is its volume?

A. 20 cu cm
B. 40 cu cm
C. 80 cu cm
D. 160 cu cm

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Use the formula for volume of a pyramid: (1/3) * base area * height. Calculate the base area (10cm * 10cm = 100 sq cm) and substitute: (1/3) * 100 sq cm * 8cm = 80 cu cm.

3. What is the SI unit of measurement for momentum?

A. Newton (N)
B. Kilogram-meter per second (kgÂ·m/s)
C. Joule (J)
D. Newton-second (NÂ·s)

Correct answer: b

Rationale: Momentum is measured in kilogram-meter per second (kgÂ·m/s).

4. The primary function of the placenta during pregnancy is to:

A. Produce insulin
B. Facilitate gas exchange between mother and fetus
C. Excrete waste products from the fetus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The placenta serves multiple crucial functions during pregnancy. It facilitates gas exchange between the mother and fetus, ensuring the transfer of oxygen and nutrients while removing carbon dioxide and waste products. Additionally, the placenta produces hormones like insulin that help regulate the mother's metabolism and support the development of the fetus. Therefore, the placenta plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy environment for the growing fetus by providing essential nutrients, removing waste, and regulating hormonal balance.

5. Identify the type of error in the sentence "They went to the store, and bought groceries, then went home."

A. Run-on sentence
B. Comma splice
C. Dangling modifier
D. Subject-verb agreement

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The sentence combines two independent clauses without proper punctuation, forming a run-on sentence.

6. Antibodies, crucial for immune defense, are produced by:

A. Neutrophils
B. Lymphocytes
C. Monocytes
D. Basophils

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Lymphocytes. Antibodies, also known as immunoglobulins, are produced by B lymphocytes (B cells) as a key component of the adaptive immune response. These specialized cells play a crucial role in recognizing and neutralizing pathogens, thereby providing immunity against infections. Neutrophils (A) are a type of white blood cell involved in innate immunity and phagocytosis. Monocytes (C) are another type of white blood cell that can differentiate into macrophages, which are important in phagocytosis and antigen presentation. Basophils (D) are involved in allergic responses and inflammation through the release of histamine. Lymphocytes, particularly B cells, are primarily responsible for antibody production in response to pathogens and foreign substances.