1. The primary function of the placenta during pregnancy is to:

A. Produce insulin
B. Facilitate gas exchange between mother and fetus
C. Excrete waste products from the fetus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' The placenta serves multiple crucial functions during pregnancy. It facilitates gas exchange between the mother and fetus, ensuring the transfer of oxygen and nutrients while removing carbon dioxide and waste products. Additionally, the placenta produces hormones like insulin that help regulate the mother's metabolism and support the development of the fetus. Therefore, the placenta plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy environment for the growing fetus by providing essential nutrients, removing waste, and regulating hormonal balance.

2. What is the main function of peroxisomes in the cell?

A. To break down hydrogen peroxide
B. To synthesize lipids and other cellular components
C. To package and transport proteins
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Peroxisomes are membrane-bound organelles found in eukaryotic cells that contain enzymes involved in various metabolic processes. One of the main functions of peroxisomes is to break down hydrogen peroxide, a toxic byproduct of metabolism, into water and oxygen through the action of the enzyme catalase. This process helps protect the cell from oxidative damage caused by hydrogen peroxide. While peroxisomes are involved in other metabolic functions such as lipid metabolism and the synthesis of bile acids, their primary role is the breakdown of hydrogen peroxide.

3. What is the main component of sweat?

A. Urea
B. Glucose
C. Water
D. Electrolytes

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: - Sweat is primarily composed of water, making up the majority of its content. Water helps regulate body temperature by evaporating from the skin's surface, which cools the body down. - While sweat does contain small amounts of other substances like urea, glucose, and electrolytes, water is the main component that is secreted by sweat glands to help regulate body temperature during physical activity or in response to heat.

4. Which part of the brain is responsible for regulating heart rate, breathing, and swallowing?

A. Cerebrum
B. Cerebellum
C. Medulla oblongata
D. Thalamus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Medulla oblongata. The medulla oblongata is located at the base of the brainstem and is responsible for regulating essential functions such as heart rate, breathing, and swallowing. It contains vital control centers for these automatic processes, making it a critical part of the brain for maintaining life. The cerebrum is primarily involved in higher brain functions such as thinking and voluntary movement, while the cerebellum helps with coordination and balance. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information. Therefore, the medulla oblongata is the most appropriate choice for regulating these basic physiological functions.

5. What is the process of cells becoming specialized to perform specific functions called?

A. Cell division
B. Cell differentiation
C. Cell growth
D. Cell regeneration

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) Cell division refers to the process by which a parent cell divides into two or more daughter cells. B) Cell differentiation is the process by which cells become specialized to perform specific functions. During differentiation, cells acquire specific structures and functions that allow them to carry out particular roles in the body. C) Cell growth is the process by which cells increase in size and number. D) Cell regeneration is the process by which new cells are produced to replace damaged or lost cells in an organism. In this context, the process of cells becoming specialized to perform specific functions is best described as cell differentiation.

6. A convex lens is characterized by its ability to:

A. Converge light rays
B. Diverge light rays
C. Focus sound waves
D. Create virtual images only

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Converge light rays.' A convex lens is thicker in the center and thinner at the edges, causing light rays passing through it to converge or come together at a focal point. This ability is what enables convex lenses to bend light rays inward, focusing them to produce clear images. Options B and C are incorrect because convex lenses do not diverge light rays or focus sound waves. Option D is also incorrect as convex lenses can create both real and virtual images based on the position of the object with respect to the lens. Therefore, the main characteristic of a convex lens is its ability to converge light rays to form focused images.