what is the scientific name for the common housefly

ATI TEAS 7

ati teas 7 science

1. What is the scientific name for the common housefly?

A. Musca domestica
B. Drosophila melanogaster
C. Apis mellifera
D. Anopheles gambiae

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Musca domestica is the scientific name for the common housefly. This species is known for being a common pest found in and around human habitations. Drosophila melanogaster (option B) is a species of fruit fly commonly used in genetic research. Apis mellifera (option C) is the scientific name for the western honeybee. Anopheles gambiae (option D) is a species of mosquito known for being a vector of malaria.

2. What is the primary function of tight junctions, specialized regions between animal cells?

A. Communication between cells
B. Anchorage between cells
C. Selective passage of materials
D. All of the above

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Selective passage of materials. Tight junctions act as specialized structures between animal cells that create a barrier to the passage of materials. Their primary function is to prevent the leakage of extracellular fluid and control the selective passage of molecules between cells. This selective control is crucial in regulating the movement of substances across cell layers. Tight junctions do not directly facilitate communication between cells or provide anchorage between cells, as their main role is to regulate the passage of materials. Choices A and B are incorrect as tight junctions do not primarily serve for communication or anchorage between cells.

3. The body's first line of defense against pathogens is the innate immune system. Which of the following is NOT a component of the innate immune system?

A. Physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes
B. Phagocytes that engulf and destroy pathogens
C. Inflammatory response to isolate and contain infection
D. Production of antibodies specific to a particular pathogen

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The production of antibodies specific to a particular pathogen is a function of the adaptive immune system, not the innate immune system. The innate immune system provides immediate, non-specific defense mechanisms against pathogens, including physical barriers, phagocytes, and inflammatory responses. Choices A, B, and C are all correct components of the innate immune system. Physical barriers like skin and mucous membranes act as the first line of defense, preventing pathogens from entering the body. Phagocytes are specialized cells that engulf and destroy pathogens, while the inflammatory response helps isolate and contain infections to prevent their spread.

4. What is the role of RNA in protein synthesis?

A. Stores genetic information
B. Decodes genetic information
C. Provides energy for the process
D. Transports amino acids to the ribosomes

Correct answer: B

Rationale: RNA plays a crucial role in protein synthesis by decoding the genetic information stored in DNA and carrying it to the ribosomes where proteins are synthesized. This process involves transcription, where RNA is synthesized from DNA, and translation, where the information in RNA is used to assemble amino acids into proteins. RNA acts as a messenger between DNA and the ribosomes, ensuring that the correct sequence of amino acids is used to build proteins according to the genetic code. Option A is incorrect because DNA, not RNA, stores genetic information. Option C is incorrect because RNA does not provide energy for protein synthesis; energy is usually provided by ATP molecules. Option D is incorrect because tRNA (transfer RNA) is responsible for transporting amino acids to the ribosomes, not RNA in general. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it accurately describes the role of RNA in protein synthesis.

5. Which hormone, produced by the ovaries, is responsible for the development of the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle and supports early pregnancy?

A. Estrogen
B. Progesterone
C. Testosterone
D. Prolactin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Progesterone, produced by the ovaries, is responsible for the development of the uterine lining during the menstrual cycle and supports early pregnancy. While estrogen also plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle, progesterone is specifically known for its role in preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining the uterine lining. Testosterone is primarily a male sex hormone and not directly involved in these processes. Prolactin is a hormone that is mainly associated with milk production and not related to the development of the uterine lining or early pregnancy.