1. Which of the following questions is NOT appropriate for scientific investigation?

A. How can we reduce greenhouse gas emissions?
B. Is there intelligent life beyond Earth?
C. What is the meaning of life?
D. Does free will exist?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Science deals with observable, measurable phenomena using evidence-based methods. Questions about subjective experiences and abstract concepts like meaning fall outside the realm of scientific inquiry.

2. Which of the following is an example of a chemical change?

A. Dissolving sugar in water
B. Boiling water
C. Rusting iron
D. Crushing ice

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rusting is a chemical reaction where iron reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide (rust).

3. Express 0.75 as a fraction.

A. 4/5
B. 3/4
C. 1/2
D. 1/4

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Decimals can be represented as fractions where the denominator is a power of 10 (in this case, 10 raised to the power of -1, or 1/10th). So, 0.75 is equivalent to 7/10. We can simplify this fraction by dividing the numerator and denominator by 5, resulting in 3/4.

4. What disease is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting?

A. Muscular dystrophy
B. Myositis
C. Fibromyalgia
D. Carpal tunnel syndrome

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Muscular dystrophy. Muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle weakness and wasting over time. It primarily affects skeletal muscles, leading to difficulties in movement and muscle function. Myositis is an inflammatory condition affecting the muscles, but it may not always result in progressive muscle weakness and wasting. Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue, not necessarily progressive muscle weakness. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression neuropathy affecting the median nerve in the wrist, leading to symptoms like numbness and tingling in the hand, but it does not cause progressive muscle weakness and wasting like muscular dystrophy does.

5. How can you effectively adapt your writing style to different audiences?

A. Use the same formal tone regardless of the audience.
B. Consider the audience's age, background, and level of knowledge.
C. Rely on jargon and technical terms to sound professional.
D. Focus on your own voice and writing preferences.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Effective writing adapts to the audience's needs and background by adjusting vocabulary, tone, and level of detail.

6. A collection of organs working together to perform a specific physiological function is known as a(n):

A. Tissue
B. Organ system
C. Organelle
D. Organ

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Organ system. An organ system is a group of organs that work together to carry out a specific function in the body. While an organ is made up of different types of tissues that work together, an organ system involves multiple organs collaborating to perform more complex tasks. Tissues (option A) are groups of similar cells working together, organelles (option C) are structures within cells that have specific functions, and organs (option D) are made up of tissues and perform specific functions, but the term 'organ system' specifically refers to a higher level of organization involving multiple organs working in coordination.