1. The primary function of the respiratory system is to:

A. Maintain body temperature
B. Deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide
C. Produce antibodies for the immune system
D. Break down food molecules for energy

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide.' The primary function of the respiratory system is to facilitate gas exchange. When we breathe in, oxygen is inhaled and transported to the bloodstream, where it is delivered to cells for energy production. Simultaneously, carbon dioxide, a waste product of cellular metabolism, is removed from the bloodstream and exhaled. This process is vital for sustaining life and maintaining proper oxygen levels in the body. The respiratory system does not primarily regulate body temperature, produce antibodies, or break down food molecules for energy, making options A, C, and D incorrect.

2. Which hormone primarily triggers ovulation in the female menstrual cycle?

A. Estrogen
B. Progesterone
C. Luteinizing hormone (LH)
D. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is the hormone responsible for triggering ovulation in the female menstrual cycle. During the menstrual cycle, LH surge occurs around day 14, which stimulates the release of a mature egg from the ovary. This surge in LH is crucial for the rupture of the mature follicle and the release of the egg, marking the onset of ovulation. Estrogen and progesterone play important roles in regulating the menstrual cycle, but LH specifically triggers ovulation by signaling the release of the egg from the ovary.

3. The phrase "survival of the fittest" refers to:

A. Organisms with the most complex anatomical structures are more likely to survive and reproduce.
B. Organisms that demonstrate the best adaptations to their environment have a higher chance of survival and reproduction.
C. All organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success regardless of their traits.
D. Only the strongest and most aggressive individuals within a population will survive and reproduce.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: The phrase "survival of the fittest" is often associated with the concept of natural selection, which was proposed by Charles Darwin. Natural selection is the process by which organisms that are best adapted to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce, passing on their advantageous traits to the next generation. This process does not necessarily favor the most complex anatomical structures (option A) or the strongest and most aggressive individuals (option D). Instead, it emphasizes the importance of adaptations that enhance an organism's ability to survive and reproduce in a specific environment. Option C is incorrect because natural selection results in differential reproductive success based on an organism's traits, meaning that not all organisms have an equal probability of survival and reproductive success.

4. Which sentence uses the modal verb "should" correctly?

A. You should have studied harder for the exam.
B. I should be going now.
C. She said she should have taken a different route.
D. They should be arriving any minute now.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Option B conveys an intention or expectation regarding the present or near future.

5. Calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels, is produced by the:

A. Thyroid gland
B. Parathyroid gland
C. Thymus gland
D. Adrenal gland

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Thyroid gland." Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that helps regulate calcium levels in the body. It works in opposition to parathyroid hormone, which is produced by the parathyroid gland. The thymus gland is responsible for immune function, while the adrenal gland produces hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Therefore, the thyroid gland is the specific gland responsible for producing calcitonin to regulate calcium levels in the body.