1. Which of the following is NOT a good scientific practice?

A. Which of the following is NOT a good scientific practice?
B. Selecting data that supports a desired outcome and ignoring contradictory evidence.
C. Peer-reviewing research findings before publication.
D. Replicating experiments to confirm results and validate findings.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Scientific objectivity requires considering all data, regardless of whether it aligns with initial expectations. Selective bias can lead to inaccurate conclusions.

2. Aseptic meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges caused by:

A. Bacteria
B. Viruses
C. Fungi
D. Parasites

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Aseptic meningitis is typically caused by viral infections, such as enteroviruses (e.g., coxsackievirus, echovirus), herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and others. These viruses can infect the meninges, leading to inflammation and symptoms of meningitis without the presence of bacteria. While bacterial meningitis is a serious and life-threatening condition, aseptic meningitis caused by viruses is usually less severe and has a better prognosis. Fungi and parasites are less common causes of meningitis compared to bacteria and viruses.

3. Adipose tissue, commonly known as fat, primarily functions in:

A. Support
B. Insulation
C. Energy storage
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Adipose tissue, or fat, serves multiple functions in the body. It provides support by cushioning and protecting organs, acts as an insulation layer to maintain body temperature, and serves as a crucial energy storage site where excess energy is stored in the form of triglycerides. Therefore, all of the options listed (support, insulation, and energy storage) are accurate functions of adipose tissue.

4. The kidneys are bean-shaped organs that perform several vital functions. Which of the following is NOT a primary function of the kidneys?

A. Filtering waste products from the blood
B. Regulating blood pressure
C. Producing red blood cells
D. Maintaining water balance in the body

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. While the kidneys perform multiple vital functions, such as filtering waste products from the blood, regulating blood pressure, and maintaining water balance in the body, they do not produce red blood cells. Red blood cell production occurs in the bone marrow, specifically in the spongy tissue called the red bone marrow. Therefore, the kidneys' primary functions do not include producing red blood cells.

5. What is the main idea of the passage?

A. Petra is a modern city built for tourism.
B. Petra's historical significance lies in its architectural achievements.
C. Petra's prosperity was linked to its strategic location on trade routes.
D. Petra's obscurity remains a mystery despite its rediscovery.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: B mentions Petra's architecture, but not its connection to trade. A and D are factually incorrect and not supported by the passage. Choice C accurately identifies Petra's rise and fall as tied to its position on the Silk Road, making it the main idea.