1. You design an experiment to test the effectiveness of a new fertilizer. Which of the following factors would be considered a dependent variable?

A. The type of fertilizer used
B. The size and age of the plants
C. The amount of plant growth observed
D. The cost of the fertilizer per unit

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The dependent variable is the factor that is being measured or observed in an experiment. In this case, the amount of plant growth observed is the variable that is being influenced by the independent variable, which is the type of fertilizer used. The size and age of the plants (option B) could potentially be controlled variables, while the type of fertilizer used (option A) is the independent variable being tested. The cost of the fertilizer per unit (option D) is not directly related to the plant growth being measured in this experiment.

2. Alpha waves, characteristic of quiet wakefulness and relaxation, have a frequency range of:

A. 0.5-4 Hz
B. 4-8 Hz
C. 8-13 Hz
D. 13-30 Hz

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Alpha waves are typically associated with relaxed wakefulness and quiet, non-arousing states. They have a frequency range of 8-13 Hz. This frequency range is slower than beta waves (13-30 Hz) associated with active thinking and concentration, making option C the correct answer. Options A (0.5-4 Hz) and D (13-30 Hz) do not fall within the typical range of alpha waves. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice for the frequency range of alpha waves, reflecting the brain's state during relaxation and quiet wakefulness.

3. How does RNA polymerase differ from DNA polymerase?

A. Both enzymes are identical in function and structure.
B. RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis.
C. RNA polymerase can synthesize both RNA and DNA.
D. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, unlike DNA polymerase.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase and DNA polymerase are not identical in function and structure. They have different roles in the cell. B) This statement is correct. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis. RNA polymerase can start the synthesis of RNA de novo. C) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase is specialized for synthesizing RNA, not DNA. DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA. D) This statement is correct. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, while DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA.

4. What kind of bond links amino acids together?

A. Hydrogen bond
B. Ionic bond
C. Disulfide bond
D. Covalent bond

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: Amino acids are linked together by covalent bonds to form proteins. A covalent bond is a strong chemical bond formed by the sharing of electrons between atoms. In the case of amino acids, the covalent bond that links them together is called a peptide bond. This bond forms between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another amino acid, resulting in the formation of a peptide chain. Hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and disulfide bonds can also play roles in protein structure and stability, but the primary bond linking amino acids together in a protein chain is the covalent peptide bond.

5. Identify the comprehensive protection for the brain.

A. Skull
B. Meninges (Membranes)
C. Cerebrospinal fluid
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) The skull provides a hard, protective covering for the brain, shielding it from external trauma and injury. B) The meninges are three layers of membranes (dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater) that surround the brain and spinal cord, providing additional protection and cushioning. C) Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, acting as a shock absorber and providing nutrients to the central nervous system. Together, the skull, meninges, and cerebrospinal fluid work in conjunction to provide comprehensive protection for the brain, making option D the correct answer.

6. Which of the following is NOT a part of a plant cell?

A. Cell wall
B. Plasma membrane
C. Vacuole
D. Mitochondria

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Cell wall: This is a structure found in plant cells that provides support and protection. B) Plasma membrane: Also known as the cell membrane, it surrounds the cell and regulates the passage of substances in and out of the cell. C) Vacuole: This is a storage organelle found in plant cells that stores water, nutrients, and waste products. D) Mitochondria: Mitochondria are membrane-bound organelles found in both plant and animal cells. They are responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP through cellular respiration. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Mitochondria, as it is a part of a plant cell.