1. Simple columnar epithelium lining the small intestine is crucial for:

A. Movement
B. Support
C. Absorption
D. Insulation

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Absorption. The simple columnar epithelium lining the small intestine is crucial for absorption due to its structure and function. It has microvilli that increase the surface area available for nutrient absorption. This epithelium also contains specialized cells like goblet cells that secrete mucus to protect the lining and aid in the movement of materials. Movement (choice A) is more related to muscle tissue rather than epithelial tissue. Support (choice B) is usually provided by connective tissue rather than epithelial tissue. Insulation (choice D) is not a function of the simple columnar epithelium in the small intestine.

2. Which of the following is an example of stabilizing selection?

A. Selection that favors extreme traits in a population
B. Selection that removes individuals with extreme traits
C. Selection that maintains the current average trait in a population
D. Selection that favors one specific trait over all others

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Rationale: - Stabilizing selection is a type of natural selection that favors the intermediate variants in a population, while selecting against the extreme traits. This results in the maintenance of the current average trait in the population. - Option A is incorrect because stabilizing selection does not favor extreme traits; instead, it favors the average trait. - Option B is incorrect because stabilizing selection does not remove individuals with extreme traits; it acts against extreme traits by favoring the intermediate variants. - Option D is incorrect because stabilizing selection does not favor one specific trait over all others; it favors the average trait by selecting against extreme traits.

3. What is the primary difference between science and pseudoscience?

A. Science uses complex terminology and jargon, while pseudoscience is easier to understand.
B. Science relies on rigorous methodology and evidence, while pseudoscience thrives on personal anecdotes and testimonials.
C. Science caters to specific fields of study, while pseudoscience encompasses broader life questions.
D. Science is conducted by professionals, while pseudoscience is pursued by amateurs with limited knowledge.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Both science and pseudoscience can explore similar topics, but their methods and reliance on evidence differentiate them.

4. What is the periodic table?

A. A table of elements that are arranged in order of increasing atomic number.
B. A table of elements that are arranged in order of increasing atomic mass.
C. A table of elements that are arranged in order of their reactivity.
D. A table of elements that are arranged in order of their color.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The periodic table is a tabular arrangement of the chemical elements, organized on the basis of their atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. Elements are arranged in rows (periods) and columns (groups) with similar properties. The elements are listed in order of increasing atomic number, which is the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom. This arrangement reveals a periodic repetition of chemical properties, which is the basis of the periodic law.

5. What is the term for a solution that has a higher concentration of solute compared to another solution?

A. Saturated solution
B. Unsaturated solution
C. Dilute solution
D. Concentrated solution

Correct answer: d

Rationale: A concentrated solution has a higher concentration of solute compared to another solution. The other choices do not accurately describe a concentrated solution.

6. Histamine, released during an allergic reaction, causes symptoms like:

A. Fever and fatigue
B. Runny nose and itchiness
C. Muscle aches and joint pain
D. Cough and shortness of breath

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Runny nose and itchiness.' Histamine is a chemical released by the body during an allergic reaction. It causes various symptoms such as itching, sneezing, runny nose, and watery eyes. These symptoms are commonly associated with allergic reactions like hay fever or hives. Fever and fatigue (option A) are not directly caused by histamine release. Muscle aches and joint pain (option C) are not typical symptoms of histamine release during an allergic reaction. Cough and shortness of breath (option D) are more commonly associated with asthma or respiratory allergies rather than histamine release.