1. The microscopic functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood is the:

A. Ureter
B. Nephron
C. Renal pelvis
D. Bladder

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Nephron. The nephron is the microscopic functional unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood and producing urine. It consists of the glomerulus, Bowman's capsule, proximal convoluted tubule, loop of Henle, and distal convoluted tubule. The other options, A: Ureter, C: Renal pelvis, and D: Bladder, are incorrect as they are not parts of the nephron but rather other structures involved in the urinary system. The ureter is a tube that carries urine from the kidneys to the bladder, the renal pelvis is a funnel-shaped structure in the kidney that collects urine, and the bladder stores urine before it is excreted from the body.

2. Which of the following is NOT a primary producer in an ecosystem?

A. Grass
B. Deer
C. Algae
D. Mushroom

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: - A) Grass: Grass is a primary producer because it can photosynthesize and convert sunlight into energy, making it the base of the food chain. - B) Deer: Deer are consumers that feed on primary producers like grass, so they are not primary producers themselves. - C) Algae: Algae are primary producers that can photosynthesize and produce energy from sunlight. - D) Mushroom: Mushrooms are decomposers that break down organic matter, so they are not primary producers.

3. Which of the following is a strong base commonly used in cleaning products?

A. Sodium hydroxide (NaOH)
B. Ammonium hydroxide (NHâ‚„OH)
C. Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)â‚‚)
D. Potassium hydroxide (KOH)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Sodium hydroxide is a strong base commonly used in cleaning products. The other choices are also bases but are not as strong as sodium hydroxide.

4. What is the importance of RNA splicing?

A. Removes introns from the mRNA molecule
B. Adds the poly-A tail to the mRNA molecule
C. Activates the mRNA molecule for translation
D. Modifies the structure of the protein

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) RNA splicing is a crucial process in gene expression where non-coding regions called introns are removed from the pre-mRNA molecule, and the remaining coding regions called exons are joined together to form the mature mRNA molecule. This process ensures that only the protein-coding sequences are retained in the mRNA for translation, allowing for the production of functional proteins. Therefore, option A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the importance of RNA splicing in generating mature mRNA molecules for protein synthesis. B) Adding the poly-A tail to the mRNA molecule is a post-transcriptional modification that occurs after RNA splicing and is not directly related to the process of removing introns. C) Activating the mRNA molecule for translation is typically achieved through the addition of a 5' cap and the poly-A tail, rather than through RNA splicing. D) Modifying the structure of the protein is not directly

5. 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.

6. Neon (Ne). Both He and Ne belong to Group 18 (Noble Gases) due to their complete and stable outer electron shells.

A. Electromagnetism
B. Gravity
C. Strong nuclear force
D. Weak nuclear force

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Strong nuclear force. This incredibly powerful force overcomes the repulsive electrostatic force between protons and binds the nucleus together.