Nokea
The average life expectancy at birth in the United States at the beginning of the 21st century was about 75 years. The average life expectancy at birth in the middle of the 19th century was only about 40 years. Which of the following factors are likely to have contributed to the longer life expectancy in the 21st century? (Select the one that does not apply)
- A. The human body has evolved to become more resilient to its environment.
- B. There have been numerous advances in medical technology and treatments.
- C. Higher standards of basic cleanliness have helped people avoid illness.
- D. The creation of vaccines has nearly eliminated certain diseases that were once deadly.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Medical advances, higher standards of cleanliness, and the creation of vaccines have all significantly contributed to the increase in life expectancy over time. While human evolution plays a role in adaptation to the environment over millennia, it is not a primary factor that has led to the substantial increase in life expectancy within a few centuries. The human body's evolution is a slow process that occurs over generations, while the advancements in medical technology, cleanliness, and vaccines have had a more immediate and direct impact on improving life expectancy.
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Which of the following statements is FALSE regarding the use of qualitative and quantitative data in scientific research?
- A. Quantitative data is collected through numerical measurements.
- B. Quantitative data is more accurate than qualitative data.
- C. Qualitative data is focused on perspectives and behavior.
- D. Qualitative data is collected through observation and interviews.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because quantitative data is not inherently more accurate than qualitative data. Both types of data have their strengths and limitations, and the choice of data type depends on the research question and methodology. Quantitative data is collected through numerical measurements and involves statistical analysis. On the other hand, qualitative data focuses on perspectives, behaviors, and meanings and is typically gathered through observation and interviews. While quantitative data provides numerical precision, qualitative data offers in-depth insights into behaviors and perspectives that cannot be quantified, making them equally valuable in scientific research.
What is the smallest unit that can encode for a trait?
- A. A codon
- B. A gene
- C. A nucleotide
- D. A chromosome
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B - a gene. Genes are the smallest units that can encode for a trait as they contain the specific instructions for producing a particular characteristic or protein. While codons are sequences of nucleotides that code for specific amino acids in a protein, they are not the smallest unit that encodes for a trait. Nucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA, and chromosomes are made up of DNA and proteins, containing many genes.
If an organism is AB, which of the following combinations in the gametes is NOT possible?
- A. AB
- B. AA
- C. BB
- D. AB
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. If an organism is AB, it indicates that it carries two different alleles. During gamete formation, each gamete receives only one allele from the pair present in the organism. Therefore, in this case, the possible gametes would be 'A' and 'B,' making 'AA' impossible. Choice A, 'AB,' is possible as each gamete can carry one of the alleles from the genotype. Similarly, 'BB' is also possible if one of the alleles separates into a gamete. Choice D, 'AB,' is essentially the same genotype as the organism and is a possible combination in the gametes.
When a biologist describes the physical and visible expression of a genetic trait, which of the following is being referred to?
- A. Phenotype
- B. Allele
- C. Gamete
- D. Genotype
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Phenotype. Phenotype specifically refers to the observable physical characteristics resulting from the interaction of an individual's genetic makeup (genotype) with environmental influences. It represents the outward expression of an organism's genetic makeup. Allele, represented by choice B, refers to different forms of a gene and is not the visible expression of a trait. Gamete, represented by choice C, is a reproductive cell and not directly related to the physical expression of traits. Genotype, represented by choice D, refers to the genetic makeup of an organism and is distinct from the observable physical characteristics denoted by phenotype.
Which of the following is not a type of muscle tissue?
- A. Skeletal
- B. Smooth
- C. Cardiac
- D. Adipose
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Adipose. Adipose tissue is a type of connective tissue that stores fat, not muscle tissue. Skeletal, smooth, and cardiac are all types of muscle tissues found in the body. Skeletal muscle tissue is responsible for voluntary movements and is attached to bones. Smooth muscle tissue is found in the walls of hollow organs and blood vessels, responsible for involuntary movements. Cardiac muscle tissue is found in the heart and is responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. Adipose tissue, on the other hand, primarily functions as a storage site for energy in the form of fat.