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. Which part of the heart generates the QRS complex on an ECG?

A. Sinoatrial node (SA node)
B. Atrioventricular node (AV node)
C. Bundle of His
D. Ventricular muscle cells

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, ventricular muscle cells. The QRS complex on an ECG represents the depolarization of the ventricles. This electrical activity is generated by the spread of impulses through the bundle branches and Purkinje fibers to the ventricular muscle cells. The SA node (option A) is responsible for initiating the electrical impulse in the heart, but it does not directly generate the QRS complex. The AV node (option B) delays the impulse to allow for proper coordination of atrial and ventricular contractions. The Bundle of His (option C) and its branches facilitate the conduction of the electrical signal from the AV node to the ventricles but do not generate the QRS complex directly.

3. A hypothesis should be:

A. A definitive statement of fact based on existing knowledge.
B. A testable prediction based on observations and reasoning.
C. A broad question without any specific direction or focus.
D. A personal belief or opinion not requiring further investigation.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hypotheses guide scientific exploration by providing a framework for testing potential explanations.

4. Which vitamin is crucial for calcium absorption and synthesized in the skin upon sun exposure?

A. Vitamin A
B. Vitamin C
C. Vitamin D
D. Vitamin E

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Vitamin D. Vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption as it helps the body absorb calcium from the diet. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, it produces vitamin D. This is why sunlight is often referred to as the 'sunshine vitamin.' Vitamin A (choice A) is important for vision and immune function, but not specifically for calcium absorption. Vitamin C (choice B) is essential for collagen production and immune function, but not directly related to calcium absorption. Vitamin E (choice D) is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, but it is not primarily involved in calcium absorption like vitamin D.

5. During embryonic development, all tissues originate from

A. Epithelial tissue only
B. Muscle tissue only
C. Connective tissue only
D. Embryonic germ layers

Correct answer: D

Rationale: During embryonic development, all tissues originate from the three primary embryonic germ layers: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. These layers give rise to all the different types of tissues found in the body. The ectoderm forms the skin and nervous system, the mesoderm gives rise to muscle, bone, and connective tissues, while the endoderm develops into the lining of the digestive and respiratory systems. Therefore, option D is the correct answer as it encompasses the comprehensive origin of all tissues in the body during embryonic development.

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.