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 patient's oxygen flow rate is set at 4 liters per minute. How many cubic centimeters of oxygen are delivered per minute?

A. 400 cubic centimeters
B. 4,000 cubic centimeters
C. 40,000 cubic centimeters
D. 400,000 cubic centimeters

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Remember 1 liter is equal to 1000 cubic centimeters. Multiply the flow rate in liters per minute by the conversion factor: 4 liters/minute * 1000 cmÂ³/liter = 4,000 cubic centimeters/minute.

3. The defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of:

A. Neutrons in its nucleus
B. Electrons surrounding the nucleus
C. Protons in its nucleus
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Protons in its nucleus.' An element is defined by the number of protons in its nucleus, known as the atomic number. This number determines the element's identity and its placement on the periodic table. Neutrons and electrons play important roles in an atom, but they do not define the element itself. Neutrons contribute to the atom's mass, while electrons are involved in chemical reactions and bonding. Therefore, the number of protons is the defining characteristic of an element.

4. What is the function of the underlined phrase "with a mischievous grin" in the sentence "He approached her with a mischievous grin, his eyes twinkling"?

A. Subject
B. Direct object
C. Adverbial phrase
D. Appositive phrase

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The underlined phrase modifies the verb "approached" by describing his manner, making it an adverbial phrase.

5. Which of the following is NOT a method of sterilization?

A. Autoclave
B. UV light
C. Chemical disinfectants
D. Boiling water

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Autoclave: An autoclave is a method of sterilization that uses high pressure and steam to kill microorganisms, making it an effective way to sterilize equipment and materials. B) UV light: UV light is a method of sterilization that damages the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing infections. C) Chemical disinfectants: Chemical disinfectants are used to kill or inactivate microorganisms on surfaces, but they may not always achieve sterilization, which is the complete destruction of all microorganisms. D) Boiling water: Boiling water is a method of disinfection rather than sterilization. While boiling water can kill many microorganisms, it may not be effective against all types of bacteria, viruses, and spores, making it unsuitable for achieving sterilization. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Boiling water, as it is not a method of sterilization

6. What are isotopes?

A. Atoms of the same element with different numbers of protons.
B. Atoms of the same element with different numbers of neutrons.
C. Atoms of different elements with the same number of protons.
D. Atoms of different elements with the same number of electrons.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Isotopes are atoms of the same element that have the same number of protons but different numbers of neutrons. This means that isotopes have the same atomic number (Z) but different mass numbers (A). For example, carbon-12 (Â¹Â²C), carbon-13 (Â¹Â³C), and carbon-14 (Â¹â´C) are all isotopes of carbon. They all have six protons in their nuclei, but they have different numbers of neutrons: carbon-12 has six neutrons, carbon-13 has seven neutrons, and carbon-14 has eight neutrons.