1. A study finds a specific gene linked to increased risk of heart disease. Does this mean everyone with that gene will develop heart disease?

A. Yes, the gene deterministically causes heart disease.
B. No, other factors also influence heart disease risk.
C. We need more research to clarify the gene's exact role.
D. Only people with a family history of heart disease need to worry.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The presence of a specific gene linked to an increased risk of heart disease does not guarantee that everyone with that gene will develop the condition. Other factors such as lifestyle, environment, and overall health also play a significant role in determining an individual's risk of heart disease. Therefore, it is essential to consider these additional factors rather than solely attributing the risk to the gene itself.

2. The phrase "massive open online courses" (MOOCs) refers to

A. Online learning platforms designed specifically for students with disabilities.
B. University-level courses freely available to anyone with an internet connection.
C. Interactive training modules aimed at developing job-specific skills and knowledge.
D. Online resources offering personalized learning experiences tailored to individual needs.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: MOOCs by definition are open and accessible courses, aligning with B.

3. Which of the following numbers is a perfect square?

A. 10
B. 12
C. 15
D. 16

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A perfect square is a number obtained by squaring an integer. 16 is the result of squaring 4 (4 x 4 = 16). The other answer choices are not the product of squaring any whole number.

4. Which neurotransmitter is associated with mood, sleep, and memory?

A. Dopamine
B. Serotonin
C. Acetylcholine
D. Glutamate

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, sleep, and memory. It is known as the 'feel-good' neurotransmitter because it helps to promote feelings of well-being and happiness. Serotonin also contributes to the regulation of sleep patterns and plays a role in memory and learning processes. Dopamine is associated with reward and motivation, acetylcholine with muscle movement and cognitive functions, and glutamate with learning and memory as an excitatory neurotransmitter. Therefore, of the options provided, serotonin is the neurotransmitter most closely linked to mood, sleep, and memory.

5. Which of the following organs is NOT directly involved in urine production?

A. Kidneys
B. Urethra
C. Lungs
D. Bladder

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Lungs. The lungs are not directly involved in urine production. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood to create urine. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. The bladder serves as a temporary storage reservoir for urine. In contrast, the lungs are primarily responsible for the exchange of gases, such as oxygen and carbon dioxide, during respiration and are not directly involved in the process of urine production.

6. What is the term for the process of breaking a large molecule into smaller fragments by applying heat?

A. Polymerization
B. Hydrogenation
C. Isomerization
D. Pyrolysis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Pyrolysis is the process of breaking down large molecules into smaller fragments by applying heat. The other choices involve different chemical processes.