1. What is the purpose of the periosteum, the tough outer layer of bone?

A. Produces red blood cells
B. Provides protection and nourishment to bone
C. Forms the joint surface
D. Stores minerals

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Provides protection and nourishment to bone.' The periosteum is a tough outer layer of bone that serves multiple functions. It provides protection by acting as a barrier against infections and injuries. Additionally, the periosteum contains blood vessels that supply nutrients to the bone cells, aiding in bone growth, repair, and maintenance. While red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow, not in the periosteum, the periosteum's primary role is to support the overall health and integrity of the bone structure.

2. A ball is thrown upwards. Which of the following statements is TRUE about its potential energy and kinetic energy at the peak of its trajectory?

A. Both potential and kinetic energy are zero.
B. Potential energy is maximum and kinetic energy is minimum.
C. Potential energy is minimum and kinetic energy is maximum.
D. Both potential and kinetic energy remain constant.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: At the peak, the ball momentarily stops moving, minimizing kinetic energy. However, it's still at its highest point, maximizing its potential energy due to gravity.

3. Which of the following is NOT a common symptom of pregnancy?

A. Fatigue
B. Nausea
C. Increased urination
D. Loss of appetite

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: "Loss of appetite." While it is common for pregnant individuals to experience fatigue, nausea, and increased urination due to hormonal changes and the body's adaptations during pregnancy, a loss of appetite is not typically a common symptom. Most pregnant individuals experience increased appetite, particularly in the early stages of pregnancy. This increased appetite is often attributed to the body's need for additional nutrients to support the growing fetus. Therefore, the absence of appetite loss makes option D the correct choice in this question.

4. How does the stability of an atom's nucleus influence its radioactive decay?

A. Stable nuclei never undergo radioactive decay.
B. Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes.
C. Decay releases energy, making stable nuclei more prone to it.
D. The element's position on the periodic table determines its decay rate.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unstable nuclei are more likely to decay through various processes. The stability of an atom's nucleus is a key factor in determining whether it will undergo radioactive decay. Unstable nuclei have an excess of either protons or neutrons, leading to an imbalance in the nucleus. To achieve a more stable configuration, these nuclei will undergo radioactive decay by emitting particles or energy. Stable nuclei, on the other hand, are less likely to undergo radioactive decay as they have a balanced number of protons and neutrons.

5. A group of antibiotics that target the cell wall of bacteria are classified as:

A. Penicillins
B. Tetracyclines
C. Macrolides
D. Fluoroquinolones

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: Penicillins are a group of antibiotics that target the cell wall of bacteria by inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycan, a key component of the bacterial cell wall. By interfering with cell wall synthesis, penicillins weaken the cell wall, leading to bacterial cell lysis and death. This mechanism of action makes penicillins effective against a wide range of bacteria, particularly Gram-positive bacteria. Tetracyclines (B), Macrolides (C), and Fluoroquinolones (D) have different mechanisms of action and do not specifically target the bacterial cell wall. Tetracyclines inhibit protein synthesis, Macrolides interfere with bacterial ribosomes, and Fluoroquinolones target bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV.

6. What is the name of the growth plates in children's bones where new bone tissue is formed?

A. Epiphyses
B. Diaphysis
C. Periosteum
D. Medullary cavity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Epiphyses. Epiphyses are the growth plates located at the ends of children's long bones where new bone tissue is formed. These plates are responsible for longitudinal bone growth until they close during adolescence. The diaphysis (B) is the shaft or main portion of a long bone, while the periosteum (C) is the outer membrane covering the bone. The medullary cavity (D) is the central cavity of bone shafts where bone marrow is stored. Understanding the terminology for different parts of bones is essential for comprehending bone growth and development in children.