What does the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom determine?
- A. Mass number
- B. Atomic number
- C. Isotope
- D. Valence electron count
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The number of protons in the nucleus of an atom is referred to as the atomic number. This atomic number is crucial as it uniquely identifies an element and determines its position on the periodic table. The mass number, on the other hand, represents the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. Isotopes are variants of elements with the same number of protons but differing numbers of neutrons. Valence electron count pertains to the number of electrons in the outermost energy level of an atom, which influences its chemical behavior.
You may also like to solve these questions
What is the primary function of coronary arteries?
- A. Delivering oxygenated blood throughout the body.
- B. Supplying oxygenated blood to the heart muscle itself.
- C. Carrying deoxygenated blood back to the heart.
- D. Regulating blood pressure through vasoconstriction and vasodilation.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of coronary arteries is to supply oxygenated blood to the heart muscle itself. The heart is a muscle that needs a constant supply of oxygen and nutrients to function properly. Coronary arteries branch off the aorta and specifically deliver oxygenated blood to the heart muscle, ensuring its proper function. Choice A is incorrect because coronary arteries do not deliver blood throughout the entire body but specifically to the heart. Choice C is incorrect as coronary arteries carry oxygenated blood away from the heart. Choice D is incorrect as the primary function of the coronary arteries is not to regulate blood pressure but rather to provide oxygenated blood to the heart muscle.
Which gland produces the hormone responsible for the 'fight-or-flight' response in stressful situations?
- A. Thyroid gland
- B. Pituitary gland
- C. Adrenal gland
- D. Pancreas
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Adrenal gland. The hormone responsible for the 'fight-or-flight' response in stressful situations is produced by the adrenal gland. This hormone is called adrenaline (epinephrine) and is released in response to stress, preparing the body to either fight the stressor or flee from it. The other choices are incorrect because the thyroid gland primarily produces hormones that regulate metabolism, the pituitary gland produces various hormones that control other endocrine glands, and the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels.
Which part of the brain is responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, and is considered a key player in the endocrine system?
- A. Amygdala
- B. Hippocampus
- C. Hypothalamus
- D. Thalamus
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The hypothalamus is responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, making it a vital component in maintaining homeostasis. It also plays a crucial role in the endocrine system by controlling the release of hormones from the pituitary gland. The amygdala primarily processes emotions, the hippocampus is associated with memory formation, and the thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information. Therefore, the hypothalamus is the correct answer as it directly regulates the physiological processes mentioned in the question.
In which medium does light propagate at its highest speed?
- A. Air
- B. Water
- C. Glass
- D. Diamond
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Light travels at its highest speed in a vacuum. However, among the options provided, air is the closest medium to a vacuum, making it the correct answer. In general, light travels slower in denser mediums due to interactions with atoms and molecules in the medium. Water, glass, and diamond are denser mediums compared to air, causing light to propagate at slower speeds in these materials, hence making them incorrect choices.
What is the main function of the epiglottis?
- A. To store bile
- B. To absorb nutrients
- C. To prevent food from entering the trachea
- D. To produce digestive enzymes
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The epiglottis is a flap of cartilage located at the base of the tongue that covers the opening of the trachea during swallowing to prevent food and liquids from entering the airway. This action helps direct food and liquids into the esophagus, which leads to the stomach for digestion, while also protecting the respiratory system from potential blockages that could lead to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Options A, B, and D are incorrect as the epiglottis is not involved in storing bile, absorbing nutrients, or producing digestive enzymes. Understanding the role of the epiglottis in the swallowing process is crucial for maintaining proper respiratory and digestive functions.