Nokea
The Gram stain is a differential staining technique used to classify bacteria based on their cell wall composition. Gram-positive bacteria appear
- A. Pink
- B. Blue
- C. Red
- D. Purple
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The Gram stain is a differential staining technique that categorizes bacteria into two groups based on their cell wall composition: Gram-positive and Gram-negative. Gram-positive bacteria have a thick layer of peptidoglycan in their cell walls, which retains the crystal violet stain used in the Gram staining procedure. Consequently, Gram-positive bacteria appear purple under the microscope after staining. On the other hand, Gram-negative bacteria possess a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane that can be penetrated by the counterstain safranin, leading them to appear pink or red. Blue is not typically used to describe the color of bacteria in a Gram stain, making it an incorrect choice.
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Which of Mendel's Laws states that alleles for a gene segregate during gamete formation?
- A. Law of Independent Assortment
- B. Law of Segregation
- C. Law of Dominance
- D. Law of Probability
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Law of Segregation, proposed by Gregor Mendel, states that alleles for a gene segregate during gamete formation. This means that each parent passes on only one allele for each gene to their offspring. This law explains how genetic diversity is maintained and how different combinations of alleles are generated in offspring. The Law of Independent Assortment (option A) is not the correct answer as it states that alleles of different genes assort independently of each other during gamete formation, not specifically alleles of a single gene. The Law of Dominance (option C) is incorrect as it pertains to the expression of alleles rather than their segregation during gamete formation. The Law of Probability (option D) is also incorrect as it is a general concept describing the likelihood of events, not specifically related to alleles segregating during gamete formation.
What is the primary composition of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis?
- A. Keratinized dead cells
- B. Melanocytes
- C. Langerhans cells
- D. Merkel cells
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, is primarily composed of keratinized dead cells. These cells are flattened, fully keratinized, and lack nuclei, serving a protective function for the skin. Melanocytes are responsible for producing melanin, providing skin pigmentation. Langerhans cells are involved in the immune response within the skin. Merkel cells are associated with sensory functions in the skin, particularly in touch sensations. Therefore, the correct answer is A as it accurately reflects the main constituent of the stratum corneum, which acts as a barrier against external factors.
What is the primary function of the cell membrane?
- A. To provide structural support for the cell
- B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
- C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
- D. To store genetic material
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, allowing specific molecules to pass through while blocking others. This role is crucial for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by enabling essential nutrients to enter and waste products to exit. While the cell membrane provides some structural support for the cell, its main function is substance transport. Protein and lipid synthesis predominantly occur in organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, and storing genetic material is the nucleus's responsibility. Therefore, choices C (To synthesize proteins and lipids) and D (To store genetic material) are incorrect as these functions are carried out by other cell organelles, not the cell membrane.
What causes dandruff?
- A. Excessive sebum production (This can contribute to oily dandruff)
- B. Bacterial infection (This can cause scalp folliculitis, not dandruff)
- C. Overgrowth of a specific type of fungus on the scalp
- D. Lack of proper skin hydration
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Dandruff is primarily caused by an overgrowth of a specific type of fungus called Malassezia on the scalp. This fungus feeds on the natural oils produced by the hair follicles, leading to irritation and flaking of the scalp skin. Choice A is incorrect because excessive sebum production can contribute to oily dandruff, but it is not the primary cause of dandruff. Choice B is incorrect as bacterial infection primarily causes scalp folliculitis, not dandruff. Choice D is incorrect as dandruff is not primarily caused by a lack of proper skin hydration.
Which of the following organs is responsible for the mechanical breakdown of food into smaller pieces?
- A. Esophagus
- B. Stomach
- C. Small intestine
- D. Mouth
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Mouth. The mouth is responsible for the mechanical breakdown of food through chewing and mixing with saliva. This process is essential for breaking down food into smaller, more digestible pieces before swallowing. The esophagus (choice A) is a muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach and does not participate in the mechanical breakdown of food. The stomach (choice B) primarily functions to further break down food using acids and enzymes, rather than mechanical means. The small intestine (choice C) is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food, not for the mechanical breakdown of food.