1. Dense irregular connective tissue, found in tendons and ligaments, provides:

A. Flexibility
B. Lubrication
C. Insulation
D. Tensile strength

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Tensile strength.' Dense irregular connective tissue is composed of tightly packed collagen fibers arranged in a random pattern, providing resistance to tension forces. This structural arrangement is ideal for tendons and ligaments, as they need to withstand pulling and stretching forces. 'Flexibility' (A) is more characteristic of elastic fibers, 'Lubrication' (B) is provided by synovial fluid in joints, and 'Insulation' (C) is typically associated with adipose tissue. Therefore, tensile strength is the primary function of dense irregular connective tissue in tendons and ligaments.

2. What is the main factor limiting population growth in K-strategists?

A. Predation
B. Availability of resources
C. Competition
D. Disease

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Rationale: K-strategists are species that have a low reproductive rate and invest more resources in raising fewer offspring. These species typically inhabit stable environments where resources are limited. The main factor limiting population growth in K-strategists is the availability of resources such as food, shelter, and space. When resources are scarce, K-strategists may struggle to find enough resources to support their population size, leading to decreased reproductive success and population growth. Predation (option A), competition (option C), and disease (option D) can also impact population growth, but the primary limiting factor for K-strategists is the availability of resources.

3. When water boils, it changes from a liquid to a gas. This is an example of a:

A. Chemical reaction
B. Physical change
C. Nuclear reaction
D. Biological process

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Physical change - Boiling water involves a change in state, not the chemical composition of the molecules. Chemical reactions involve breaking and forming new bonds, which is not the case here.

4. A person throws a ball horizontally. What force changes the direction of the ball's motion?

A. The force of throwing
B. Gravitational force
C. Air resistance
D. Normal force from the ground

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a person throws a ball horizontally, the initial force that propels the ball forward is the force of throwing (A). However, the force that changes the direction of the ball's motion is the gravitational force (B), which acts vertically downward and causes the ball to follow a curved path. Air resistance (C) and normal force from the ground (D) do not directly change the direction of the ball's motion in this scenario.

5. A bag contains 5 red marbles and 7 blue marbles. If you draw a marble without looking, what is the probability it will be red?

A. 1/4
B. 1/3
C. 1/2
D. 2/3

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Divide the number of red marbles (5) by the total number of marbles (12) to get 1/3 probability.

6. What is the tough, fibrous tissue that connects bones at joints called?

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

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ligaments. Ligaments are the tough, fibrous tissue that connects bones at joints. They provide stability and support to the joints, preventing excessive movement that could result in injury. Cartilage is a smooth, rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones and cushions joints. Tendons are fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones, allowing for movement. Fascia is a connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves, providing support and protection. Therefore, in this case, the term that specifically refers to the tissue connecting bones at joints is ligaments.