1. Action potentials, the all-or-nothing electrical signals traveling along neurons, are generated by the movement of:

A. Glucose
B. Sodium and potassium ions
C. Neurotransmitters
D. Myelin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Sodium and potassium ions. Action potentials are generated by the movement of sodium and potassium ions across the neuronal membrane. During depolarization, sodium ions rush into the cell, causing a change in electrical charge. This influx of positive ions triggers the opening of voltage-gated potassium channels, allowing potassium ions to exit the cell during repolarization. Glucose is a source of energy for cells but does not directly generate action potentials. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers released at synapses, while myelin is a fatty substance that insulates axons, speeding up the conduction of action potentials but not directly generating them.

2. Electrons occupy specific energy levels around the nucleus with varying probabilities. The electron cloud model depicts electrons existing in distinct energy levels, not fixed orbits, with probabilities of finding them in specific regions.

A. 2 protons and 6 neutrons
B. 2 filled s orbitals and 6 filled p orbitals
C. 2s orbitals with 2 and 6 electrons, respectively
D. 4 filled electron shells

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 2 filled s orbitals and 6 filled p orbitals. This notation indicates two electrons in the 2s orbital and six electrons in the 2p orbitals.

3. What is the name of the monthly cycle in females that prepares the body for potential pregnancy?

A. Ovulation cycle
B. Menstrual cycle
C. Implantation cycle
D. Gestation cycle

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Menstrual cycle. The menstrual cycle is the monthly process in females where the lining of the uterus thickens in preparation for a potential pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the lining sheds, resulting in menstruation. Ovulation is a key event within the menstrual cycle where an egg is released from the ovary, typically around the midpoint of the cycle. Implantation refers to the attachment of a fertilized egg to the uterus, which occurs after ovulation and fertilization. Gestation cycle refers to the period of pregnancy from conception to birth. Therefore, the menstrual cycle best describes the monthly process that prepares the body for potential pregnancy.

4. Which sentence uses the passive voice correctly?

A. The letter was written by Mary.
B. John built the house.
C. She gave the flowers to him.
D. They were eating dinner.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option a clearly identifies the object (letter) acted upon and the agent (Mary) performing the action in the passive voice.

5. Which of the following is NOT a function of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)?

A. Synthesis of lipids (fats)
B. Transport of materials within the cell
C. Detoxification of harmful substances
D. Breakdown of cellular waste products

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Detoxification of harmful substances.' The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is responsible for synthesizing lipids (fats), transporting materials within the cell, and breaking down cellular waste products. However, detoxification of harmful substances is primarily carried out by the smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) where enzymes detoxify drugs and other harmful compounds. Therefore, C is the correct answer as it is not a primary function of the ER.