Glial cells support and protect neurons within the central and peripheral nervous system. What are they called?
- A. Astrocytes
- B. Neuroglia
- C. Oligodendrocytes
- D. Schwann cells
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Astrocytes are a type of glial cell that provide support and protection for neurons in both the central and peripheral nervous systems. While the term 'Neuroglia' is often used to refer to glial cells collectively, in this context, the question specifically asks for the name of the cells, making 'Astrocytes' the correct answer. Choice B, 'Neuroglia,' is a general term for all glial cells, not a specific type. Choices C and D, 'Oligodendrocytes' and 'Schwann cells,' are also types of glial cells but are not the primary cells responsible for supporting and protecting neurons as described in the question.
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Where does sperm production occur?
- A. Prostate gland
- B. Seminal vesicles
- C. Scrotum
- D. Seminiferous tubules
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Sperm production occurs in the seminiferous tubules within the testes. These tubules are responsible for spermatogenesis, the process of sperm creation. The prostate gland and seminal vesicles contribute to seminal fluid production, while the scrotum houses the testes but does not produce sperm. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are not sites for sperm production.
Most catalysts found in biological systems are which of the following?
- A. Special lipids called cofactors.
- B. Special proteins called enzymes.
- C. Special lipids called enzymes.
- D. Special proteins called cofactors.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Enzymes are special proteins that act as catalysts in biological systems. They accelerate chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. Enzymes play a critical role in the regulation of metabolic pathways and are essential for various biological processes. While some enzymes may require cofactors for activity, the enzymes themselves are the catalysts in biological systems. Therefore, choice B, special proteins called enzymes, is the most suitable answer. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because enzymes, not lipids, are the primary catalysts in biological systems.
Which of the following compounds often contains a carboxyl group?
- A. Carbohydrates
- B. Glycolipids
- C. Amino Acids
- D. DNA
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Amino Acids. Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, contain both an amine group and a carboxyl group. The carboxyl group (-COOH) is crucial for the structure and function of proteins as it participates in peptide bond formation. Carbohydrates and DNA do not typically contain carboxyl groups as a functional group. Glycolipids consist of a carbohydrate chain linked to a lipid, but they do not inherently contain a carboxyl group.
Which hormone is produced by the pancreas to lower blood sugar levels?
- A. Glucagon
- B. Insulin
- C. Adrenaline
- D. Melatonin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Insulin. Insulin is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in lowering blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells for energy production or storage. Glucagon, which is also produced by the pancreas, functions to increase blood sugar levels by stimulating the release of stored glucose. Adrenaline, produced by the adrenal glands, is involved in the fight-or-flight response and does not directly regulate blood sugar levels. Melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, primarily regulates the sleep-wake cycle and is not involved in blood sugar level control.
What is the major difference between somatic and germline mutations?
- A. Somatic mutations usually benefit the individual while germline mutations usually harm them.
- B. Since germline mutations only affect one cell, they are less noticeable than the rapidly dividing somatic cells.
- C. Somatic mutations are not expressed for several generations, but germline mutations are expressed immediately.
- D. Germline mutations are usually inherited while somatic mutations will affect only the individual.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The major difference between somatic and germline mutations is that germline mutations are usually inherited and can be passed on to offspring, while somatic mutations occur in non-reproductive cells and only affect the individual in which they occur. This means that germline mutations have the potential to be present in future generations, while somatic mutations do not.