1. Which type of tissue is characterized by tightly packed cells with minimal extracellular matrix and provides structural support and protection?

A. Epithelial tissue
B. Connective tissue
C. Muscle tissue
D. Nervous tissue

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Connective tissue. Connective tissue is characterized by tightly packed cells with minimal extracellular matrix, which provides structural support and protection. Epithelial tissue, while also tightly packed, is specialized for lining and covering surfaces. Muscle tissue is composed of cells with contractile properties for movement, and nervous tissue is made up of neurons for transmitting electrical signals. Therefore, connective tissue best fits the description of being densely packed with cells and serving a structural support and protective function.

2. The main function of the large intestine is:

A. Digesting and absorbing nutrients
B. Storing and mixing food
C. Breaking down carbohydrates
D. Absorbing water and electrolytes

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Absorbing water and electrolytes. The main function of the large intestine is to absorb any remaining water and electrolytes from the indigestible food matter that passes through it. This absorption process helps in forming solid waste (feces) and regulating the body's fluid balance. It is not primarily responsible for digesting and absorbing nutrients like the small intestine, storing and mixing food like the stomach, or breaking down carbohydrates. Understanding the role of the large intestine in water and electrolyte absorption is crucial for maintaining proper digestion and overall health.

3. The neutral theory of molecular evolution proposes that:

A. Most mutations in DNA are selectively neutral and do not affect an organism's fitness.
B. All mutations are beneficial and contribute to the adaptation of a population.
C. The rate of evolution is primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures.
D. Genetic drift plays a negligible role in shaping genetic variation within populations.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A) The neutral theory of molecular evolution, proposed by Motoo Kimura in the 1960s, suggests that the majority of mutations that occur in DNA are selectively neutral, meaning they do not have a significant impact on an organism's fitness. These neutral mutations are not subject to natural selection and are allowed to accumulate in populations over time. This theory helps explain the high levels of genetic variation observed within populations. B) Option B is incorrect because not all mutations are beneficial. Mutations can be neutral, harmful, or beneficial, and the neutral theory specifically focuses on the idea that many mutations are neutral in their effects. C) Option C is incorrect because the neutral theory suggests that evolution is not primarily driven by strong directional selection pressures. Instead, it emphasizes the role of genetic drift and the accumulation of neutral mutations in shaping genetic variation. D) Option D is incorrect because

4. A car skids on a wet road. What is the main force preventing the car from stopping?

A. Friction
B. Gravitational force
C. Normal force from the road
D. Air resistance

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Friction opposes the motion of the car, trying to bring it to a stop. However, due to the wet surface, the friction force is not enough to overcome the car's inertia.

5. St. Raphael Medical Center just opened its new Performance Improvement Department. Ms.

A. Make an interpretation about strengths and weaknesses
B. Identify the values of the department
C. Identify structure, process, outcome standards & criteria
D. Measure actual performances

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Identify the values of the department.' When a new department is established, it is important to define its core values, beliefs, and principles to guide its operations. This helps create a shared understanding among staff and stakeholders about the department's purpose and priorities. By identifying the values of the Performance Improvement Department at St. Raphael Medical Center, employees can align their actions with the department's mission and goals, fostering a cohesive and effective work environment. Options A, C, and D are not directly related to establishing the foundational values of a new department, making them less relevant in this context.

6. What type of joint allows for the most movement?

A. Ball-and-socket joint (shoulder)
B. Hinge joint (elbow)
C. Fibrocartilaginous joint (wrists)
D. Suture joint (skull)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: A ball-and-socket joint allows for the most movement among the options provided. This type of joint is characterized by a rounded end of one bone fitting into a cup-like socket of another bone, allowing for a wide range of motion in multiple directions. The shoulder joint is a prime example of a ball-and-socket joint, enabling movements such as flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. In contrast, a hinge joint (option B) like the elbow primarily allows for movement in one plane (flexion and extension). Fibrocartilaginous joints (option C) like the wrists have limited movement due to the presence of cartilage between the bones. Suture joints (option D) in the skull are immovable joints that provide structural support but do not allow for significant movement.