1. The two main divisions of the skeletal system are:

A. Upper and lower body bones
B. Axial and appendicular skeleton
C. Long and short bones
D. Compact and spongy bone

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Axial and appendicular skeleton. The skeletal system is divided into two main parts: the axial skeleton, which includes the skull, rib cage, and vertebral column, and the appendicular skeleton, which includes the bones of the arms, legs, shoulders, and hips. This division is based on the location and function of the bones in the body. The other options are incorrect as they do not represent the main divisions of the skeletal system. Understanding these divisions is important for studying the structure and function of the human skeletal system.

2. The term "goiter" refers to a condition characterized by:

A. Overproduction of cortisol from the adrenal glands
B. Excessive growth of the thyroid gland
C. Underproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH)
D. Deficiency of growth hormone from the pituitary gland

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The term 'goiter' specifically refers to the abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. This can be due to various reasons such as iodine deficiency, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, or Graves' disease. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they describe conditions related to other glands and hormones in the endocrine system. It is important to differentiate between different endocrine disorders to accurately diagnose and treat patients. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as a goiter is characterized by the excessive growth of the thyroid gland.

3. Which of the following is a pair of nerves that originates from the brain?

A. Spinal nerves
B. Olfactory nerves
C. Sciatic nerve
D. Optic nerve

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Olfactory nerves, because they are a pair of cranial nerves that originate from the brain and are responsible for the sense of smell. Spinal nerves (option A) originate from the spinal cord, not the brain. The sciatic nerve (option C) is a large nerve that runs from the lower back down the back of each leg and also originates from the spinal cord, not the brain. The optic nerve (option D) is a cranial nerve that connects the eye to the brain, but it is not a pair of nerves that originates from the brain. Therefore, the olfactory nerves are the only pair of nerves listed that specifically originate from the brain.

4. Which of the following statements best describes Newton's first law of motion?

A. An object in motion tends to stay in motion, and an object at rest tends to stay at rest unless acted upon by an external force.
B. Force equals mass times acceleration.
C. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
D. The acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Newton's first law of motion, also known as the law of inertia, states that an object in motion will remain in motion, and an object at rest will remain at rest unless acted upon by an external force. This principle highlights the concept of inertia, which is the tendency of objects to resist changes in their state of motion. Option A accurately captures this fundamental aspect of Newton's first law. Options B, C, and D describe Newton's second law, third law, and the relationship between force, acceleration, and mass, respectively.

5. What is the role of RNA in protein synthesis?

A. Stores genetic information
B. Decodes genetic information
C. Provides energy for the process
D. Transports amino acids to the ribosomes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis by decoding the genetic information stored in DNA and carrying it to the ribosomes where proteins are synthesized. This process involves transcription, where RNA is synthesized from DNA, and translation, where the information in RNA is used to assemble amino acids into proteins. RNA acts as a messenger between DNA and the ribosomes, ensuring that the correct sequence of amino acids is used to build proteins according to the genetic code. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it accurately describes the role of RNA in protein synthesis.

6. The phrase "disruptions to ecosystems" refers to

A. Minor inconveniences experienced by plant and animal species due to changing weather patterns.
B. Significant changes in ecological relationships and imbalances in populations and food webs.
C. The aesthetic alteration of landscapes due to melting glaciers and deforestation.
D. The economic losses suffered by industries relying on natural resources affected by climate change.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The phrase suggests profound impacts on ecological balance and species interactions, aligning with B.