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. Which of the following is a characteristic of a solution with a high viscosity?

A. It flows easily
B. It has a low resistance to flow
C. It has a high resistance to flow
D. It does not mix with other liquids

Correct answer: c

Rationale: Solutions with high viscosity have a high resistance to flow. The other choices do not accurately describe high viscosity.

3. Which property of matter explains why ice floats on water?

A. Viscosity
B. Density
C. Buoyancy
D. Surface tension

Correct answer: c

Rationale: Buoyancy is the upward force exerted by a fluid (like water) on an object immersed in it. Ice floats on water because it is less dense than water, experiencing an upward force (buoyancy) greater than its weight.

4. Which sexually transmitted infection (STI) can potentially cause infertility in both men and women if left untreated?

A. Human papillomavirus (HPV)
B. Chlamydia
C. Gonorrhea
D. Syphilis

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Syphilis. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can potentially cause infertility in both men and women if left untreated. In men, untreated syphilis can lead to damage to the testicles and epididymis, affecting sperm production. In women, syphilis can result in pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) which can lead to scarring and blockages in the fallopian tubes, causing infertility. While other STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea can also lead to infertility if left untreated, syphilis is particularly known for its severe impact on reproductive health in both genders.

5. Describe the ethical considerations surrounding the potential use of CRISPR-Cas9 technology in humans.

A. Concerns about unintended consequences on the genome and potential off-target effects.
B. Debates on modifying the human germline and potential eugenic implications.
C. Accessibility and affordability of the technology, ensuring equitable access to benefits.
D. Risks associated with CRISPR-Cas9 editing germline cells and potential long-term impacts.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: CRISPR-Cas9's ability to precisely edit germline cells raises ethical dilemmas about modifying the human gene pool. This includes concerns about eugenics, unintended consequences, and the long-term impact on future generations.

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

A. To produce bile, which helps digest fats
B. To store energy in the form of glycogen
C. To produce proteins that help to clot blood
D. To detoxify harmful substances in the body

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) The liver does produce bile, which helps in the digestion of fats, but this is not its main function. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. B) While the liver does store energy in the form of glycogen, this is not its main function. Glycogen is a form of glucose storage that can be broken down into glucose when the body needs energy. C) The liver does produce proteins that help to clot blood, such as fibrinogen and prothrombin, but this is not its main function. These proteins are essential for the blood clotting process to prevent excessive bleeding. D) The main function of the liver is to detoxify harmful substances in the body. The liver processes and removes toxins, drugs, alcohol, and other harmful substances from the bloodstream, making them less harmful and