1. Tendonitis is an inflammation of the

A. Muscles
B. Tendons
C. Ligaments
D. Cartilage

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "Tendons." Tendonitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tendons, which are the tough bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. This inflammation can result from overuse, injury, or aging. Muscles (Option A) are not typically inflamed in tendonitis, although they work in conjunction with tendons. Ligaments (Option C) connect bones to other bones and are not involved in tendonitis. Cartilage (Option D) is a smooth, flexible connective tissue that cushions joints and is not directly related to tendonitis.

2. Dendrites are finger-like extensions found on

A. Muscle cells
B. Connective tissue cells
C. Neurons
D. Epithelial cells

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Dendrites are the primary sites for receiving signals in a neuron. They are specialized extensions that branch out from the cell body of a neuron to receive incoming information from other neurons. These finger-like projections play a crucial role in transmitting electrical impulses and communication within the nervous system. Muscle cells, connective tissue cells, and epithelial cells do not have dendrites as they are not involved in neuronal communication.

3. What information can be obtained directly from the element's atomic number?

A. Its atomic mass
B. Its position on the periodic table
C. Its position on the periodic table
D. Its chemical properties

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The atomic number of an element represents the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. This number determines the element's unique identity and its position on the periodic table. The atomic mass (option A) is not directly determined by the atomic number but is a weighted average of the isotopes of an element. The position on the periodic table (option C) is directly related to the atomic number, as elements are arranged in order of increasing atomic number. The chemical properties of an element (option D) are influenced by the number of protons in the nucleus, which is determined by the atomic number.

4. When an atom gains or loses electrons, it becomes a(n):

A. Molecule
B. Isotope
C. Ion
D. Compound

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Gaining or losing electrons alters the atom's electron count and charge, creating a positively or negatively charged ion.

5. What is the characteristic property of acids?

A. Bitter taste
B. Sour taste
C. Slippery feel
D. Sweet taste

Correct answer: b

Rationale: Acids typically have a sour taste. The other choices do not accurately describe the characteristic properties of acids.

6. The Merkel cells, located in the epidermis, are specialized for:

A. Melanin production
B. Temperature sensation
C. Touch perception
D. Immune defense

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Touch perception.' Merkel cells, also known as Merkel discs, are found in the skin's epidermal layer and are responsible for sensing touch. These cells are located near nerve endings and help detect light touch and pressure on the skin. They play a crucial role in the perception of tactile sensations and are not involved in melanin production, temperature sensation, or immune defense. Therefore, the specialized function of Merkel cells is primarily related to touch perception, making option C the correct choice.