1. Which of the following is NOT a function of the skeletal system?

A. Support and structure
B. Production of red blood cells
C. Storage of minerals like calcium
D. Insulation of the body

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The skeletal system provides support and structure to the body, allowing for movement and protecting internal organs. The production of red blood cells occurs in the bone marrow, which is a function of the skeletal system. Additionally, the skeletal system stores minerals like calcium, which play a crucial role in bone health and overall bodily functions. Insulation of the body is not a primary function of the skeletal system but is rather a function of adipose tissue and the integumentary system. Therefore, option A is the correct answer as it does not align with the functions of the skeletal system.

2. Which element is found in water and is crucial for biological functions like nerve impulses and muscle contraction?

A. Sodium
B. Potassium
C. Calcium
D. Magnesium

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sodium plays a key role in maintaining electrolyte balance and transmitting nerve impulses, affecting both muscles and nerves

3. How does RNA polymerase differ from DNA polymerase?

A. Both enzymes are identical in function and structure.
B. RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis.
C. RNA polymerase can synthesize both RNA and DNA.
D. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, unlike DNA polymerase.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: A) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase and DNA polymerase are not identical in function and structure. They have different roles in the cell. B) This statement is correct. Unlike DNA polymerase, RNA polymerase does not require a primer to initiate RNA synthesis. RNA polymerase can start the synthesis of RNA de novo. C) This statement is incorrect. RNA polymerase is specialized for synthesizing RNA, not DNA. DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA. D) This statement is correct. RNA polymerase can only synthesize RNA, while DNA polymerase is responsible for synthesizing DNA.

4. Which of the following is a characteristic of alkenes?

A. They have a double bond between carbon atoms.
B. They are saturated hydrocarbons.
C. They contain only single bonds.
D. They are derivatives of ammonia.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Alkenes have a double bond between carbon atoms, making them unsaturated hydrocarbons. The other choices do not accurately describe alkenes.

5. Reactions requiring light energy to proceed are classified as:

A. Combustion reactions
B. Endothermic reactions
C. Photochemical reactions
D. Double displacement reactions

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: "Photochemical reactions." Photochemical reactions are a type of chemical reaction that requires light energy to proceed. During a photochemical reaction, light energy is absorbed by a substance, leading to changes in its chemical structure or properties. This process is different from combustion reactions (A), which involve the rapid combination of a fuel with oxygen to release heat and light energy. Endothermic reactions (B) absorb heat energy, not light energy, to proceed. Double displacement reactions (D) involve the exchange of ions between reactants, but do not specifically require light energy to occur. Therefore, the most appropriate classification for reactions requiring light energy is photochemical reactions.

6. Nuclear fission is a process characterized by:

A. A heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and releasing energy
B. The fusion of two nuclei to form a heavier element
C. A lighter element emitting an alpha particle through radioactive decay
D. An electron being absorbed by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nuclear fission is a process characterized by a heavy nucleus capturing a neutron and splitting into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and radiation. This differs from nuclear fusion, which involves the merging of two lighter nuclei to form a heavier element. The emission of an alpha particle by a lighter element is a form of radioactive decay, not fission. Absorption of an electron by the nucleus with the release of a gamma ray is not representative of fission reactions. Therefore, option A correctly describes the process of nuclear fission.