1. Which of the following joints allows for side-to-side bending movements?

A. Hinge joint
B. Ball-and-socket joint
C. Gliding joint
D. Saddle joint

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Gliding joint. Gliding joints are found where the bones meet and allow for limited side-to-side and back-and-forth movements. These joints have flat or slightly curved surfaces that glide against each other, enabling smooth motion in multiple directions. Hinge joints (A) allow for movement in one plane like a door hinge, ball-and-socket joints (B) allow for a wide range of motion in multiple directions, and saddle joints (D) allow for back-and-forth and side-to-side movements but are primarily designed for flexion and extension like the joint at the base of the thumb.

2. What is the scientific name for the kneecap?

A. Patella
B. Femur
C. Tibia
D. Fibula

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The patella, commonly known as the kneecap, is a small, flat, triangular bone that sits at the front of the knee joint. It protects the joint from impact and helps to transmit force from the quadriceps muscle to the tibia (shinbone).

3. What is the significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics?

A. Predicting the exact outcome of genetic crosses in humans.
B. Tracing the inheritance of complex traits with multiple contributing genes.
C. Identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders.
D. Determining the risk of acquiring a specific mutation de novo.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: Pedigrees are diagrams that show the relationships within a family and can be used to track the inheritance patterns of specific traits or diseases. While pedigrees can provide information on the inheritance of single gene disorders (such as identifying carriers of dominant genetic disorders, as mentioned in option C), their primary significance lies in studying complex traits with multiple contributing genes. These traits do not follow simple Mendelian inheritance patterns and are influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. By analyzing pedigrees, researchers can identify patterns of inheritance for complex traits, such as polygenic diseases or traits influenced by gene-environment interactions. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it captures the main significance of studying pedigrees in human genetics.

4. The Gram stain is a differential staining technique used to classify bacteria based on their cell wall composition. Gram-positive bacteria appear

A. Pink
B. Blue
C. Red
D. Purple

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The Gram stain is a differential staining technique that divides bacteria into two groups based on their cell wall composition: Gram-positive and Gram-negative. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell walls, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure. As a result, Gram-positive bacteria appear purple under the microscope after staining. In contrast, Gram-negative bacteria have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that can be penetrated by the counterstain safranin, causing them to appear pink or red. Blue is not typically used to describe the color of bacteria in a Gram stain.

5. The innate immune system provides:

A. Nonspecific, immediate defense against pathogens
B. Specific, long-term immune response through memory cells
C. Both (a) and (b)
D. Neither (a) nor (b)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Nonspecific, immediate defense against pathogens.' The innate immune system is the body's first line of defense against pathogens and provides a rapid, nonspecific response. It includes physical barriers like the skin, chemical barriers like stomach acid, and cellular responses like inflammation. This system does not involve memory cells or provide long-term immunity, which are characteristics of the adaptive immune system. Therefore, option A accurately describes the function of the innate immune system as a quick and nonspecific defense mechanism.

6. Which of the following is the main function of the lungs?

A. To transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body
B. To coordinate movement and sensory information
C. To filter waste products from the blood
D. To exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) To transport oxygen and nutrients throughout the body - While the lungs do play a role in transporting oxygen, their primary function is to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide between the body and the environment. The transportation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body is primarily carried out by the circulatory system, specifically the blood vessels. B) To coordinate movement and sensory information - This function is primarily carried out by the nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. C) To filter waste products from the blood - The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, not the lungs. The lungs primarily function in gas exchange.