Which types of molecules can move through a cell membrane by passive transport?
- A. Complex sugars
- B. Non-lipid soluble molecules
- C. Oxygen
- D. Molecules moving from areas of low concentration to areas of high concentration
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Oxygen. Small, non-polar molecules like oxygen can easily pass through the cell membrane by passive transport as they move down their concentration gradient without the need for energy input. Complex sugars (choice A) are typically too large to pass through the membrane by passive transport. Non-lipid soluble molecules (choice B) may require active transport mechanisms. Choice D describes active transport, where molecules move against their concentration gradient, requiring energy input.
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How many neurons typically comprise a sensory pathway?
- A. 1
- B. 2
- C. 3
- D. 4
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A sensory pathway generally consists of three neurons: a first-order neuron, a second-order neuron, and a third-order neuron. The first-order neuron carries sensory information from the periphery to the spinal cord or brainstem. The second-order neuron then transmits this information to the thalamus or cerebellum. Finally, the third-order neuron projects the sensory input to the cerebral cortex for processing and perception. Therefore, the correct answer is 3 (C). Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the typical structure of a sensory pathway involving three neurons.
Where does visual processing begin in the eye?
- A. Cornea
- B. Optic nerve
- C. Retina
- D. Eyelid
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Visual processing begins in the retina, not the cornea, optic nerve, or eyelid. The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells responsible for converting light into neural signals that are then sent to the brain for processing. The cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye that helps focus light, but it does not process visual information. The optic nerve transmits visual information from the retina to the brain, it does not initiate visual processing. The eyelid is a protective covering for the eye and is not involved in visual processing.
What is the function of the sinuses?
- A. To trap many airborne pathogens
- B. To direct air down the trachea rather than the esophagus
- C. To warm, humidify, and filter air
- D. To sweep away pathogens and direct them toward the top of the trachea
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct function of the sinuses is to warm, humidify, and filter the air we breathe. Sinuses play a crucial role in preparing the air for the respiratory system by adding moisture, warmth, and filtering out particles. Choice A is incorrect because while sinuses can help filter some particles, their primary function is not to trap pathogens. Choice B is incorrect as the sinuses do not control the direction of air down the trachea; this is regulated by the epiglottis and vocal cords. Choice D is incorrect as sinuses do not sweep pathogens away or direct them towards the trachea; instead, they condition the air for respiration.
How do organisms maintain homeostasis?
- A. By increasing their body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance.
- B. By undergoing biochemical processes and absorbing energy to increase entropy.
- C. By undergoing biochemical processes to maintain the order of their external environment.
- D. By using free energy and matter via biochemical processes to work against entropy.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Organisms maintain homeostasis by utilizing free energy and matter through biochemical processes to counteract entropy, which helps in preserving internal stability. This process involves maintaining a balance within the organism's internal environment despite external changes, ensuring proper functioning and survival. Choice A is incorrect because increasing body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance alone do not define the comprehensive process of maintaining homeostasis. Choice B is incorrect as absorbing energy to increase entropy goes against the concept of maintaining internal stability. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining the order of the external environment does not directly contribute to the organism's internal stability and balance.
Which level of protein structure is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone?
- A. Primary
- B. Secondary
- C. Tertiary
- D. Quaternary
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Secondary. The secondary structure of a protein is defined by the folds and coils of the protein's polypeptide backbone. This level of structure is characterized by the formation of alpha helices and beta sheets, which are stabilized by hydrogen bonds between amino acids along the polypeptide chain. Choice A, Primary, refers to the linear sequence of amino acids in the protein. Choice C, Tertiary, involves the 3D folding of the entire polypeptide chain. Choice D, Quaternary, pertains to the arrangement of multiple polypeptide subunits in a protein complex.