1. Which of the following is NOT a symptom of asthma, a chronic respiratory condition?

A. Wheezing
B. Difficulty breathing
C. Chest tightness
D. Fever

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Fever." Fever is not a symptom commonly associated with asthma. Asthma symptoms typically include wheezing (A), difficulty breathing (B), and chest tightness (C). Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound that occurs during breathing, while difficulty breathing refers to the feeling of not getting enough air. Chest tightness is a common sensation of pressure or constriction in the chest. Fever is not a typical symptom of asthma but may occur in other respiratory conditions or infections. Therefore, fever is the correct answer as it does not align with the typical symptom profile of asthma.

2. The stratified squamous epithelium found in the skin is adapted for:

A. Absorption
B. Secretion
C. Protection
D. Gas exchange

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Protection. Stratified squamous epithelium is a type of tissue that is well-suited for protection as it consists of multiple layers of cells that provide a barrier against physical and chemical damage. In the skin, this epithelium helps protect the body against external threats such as pathogens, UV radiation, and mechanical abrasion. Absorption (A) and secretion (B) are typically functions of other types of epithelial tissues, such as simple columnar or simple cuboidal epithelium. Gas exchange (D) is primarily facilitated by tissues like the alveolar epithelium in the lungs, not stratified squamous epithelium in the skin.

3. What is the main component of stomach acid?

A. Hydrochloric acid
B. Bicarbonate
C. Bile salts
D. Enzymes

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Stomach acid, also known as gastric acid, is primarily composed of hydrochloric acid. Hydrochloric acid plays a crucial role in the digestive process by helping to break down food and kill bacteria in the stomach. Bicarbonate is a base that helps neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine. Bile salts are produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, aiding in the digestion and absorption of fats. Enzymes are proteins that help catalyze chemical reactions in the body, including the breakdown of food molecules during digestion.

4. Which of the following is the main organ responsible for regulating blood pressure?

A. Heart
B. Kidneys
C. Adrenal glands
D. Pituitary gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure through various mechanisms. One of the key ways the kidneys regulate blood pressure is by controlling the volume of blood in the body. They do this by adjusting the amount of water and sodium excreted in the urine. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which is primarily controlled by the kidneys, also plays a significant role in blood pressure regulation. This system helps to maintain blood pressure by regulating blood volume and systemic vascular resistance. While the heart, adrenal glands, and pituitary gland are involved in various aspects of the cardiovascular and endocrine systems, the kidneys are the main organ responsible for regulating blood pressure.

5. Which of the following statements about fungi is FALSE?

A. They can be unicellular or multicellular
B. They are all parasitic and cause disease in humans
C. They play a vital role in decomposition and nutrient cycling
D. Some are used in food production, like mushrooms

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) This statement is true. Fungi can exist in both unicellular (yeast) and multicellular (molds and mushrooms) forms. B) This statement is false. While some fungi can be parasitic and cause diseases in humans, not all fungi exhibit this behavior. Many fungi are beneficial and play essential roles in ecosystems. C) This statement is true. Fungi are crucial for decomposition and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. They break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the environment. D) This statement is true. Some fungi, like mushrooms, are used in food production and are consumed by humans.

6. How does polarization affect the intensity of light passing through a polarizing filter?

A. All light passes through regardless of polarization.
B. Light with the same polarization as the filter passes through, while others are blocked
C. Light with higher intensity passes through, while weaker light is blocked.
D. The intensity is reduced for all light, regardless of polarization.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A polarizing filter only allows light waves with a specific polarization direction to pass through, reducing the intensity of waves with different orientations.