What is a mutation?
- A. A change in the DNA sequence
- B. A type of protein
- C. A normal part of the DNA replication process
- D. A harmless variation in DNA
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These alterations can lead to modifications in the genetic information carried by an organism, resulting in effects that can range from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations play a crucial role in genetic diversity and evolution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define what a mutation is. Option B is incorrect because mutations are not a type of protein but rather changes in DNA. Option C is incorrect because while mutations can occur during DNA replication, they are not considered a 'normal' part of the process as they can lead to genetic variations. Option D is incorrect because mutations can have a wide range of effects and are not always harmless variations.
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An object is thrown upwards and reaches a maximum height. Which of the following statements is TRUE about its velocity and acceleration at the peak?
- A. Velocity is zero and acceleration is maximum upwards.
- B. Velocity is maximum and acceleration is zero.
- C. Velocity is maximum and acceleration is maximum upwards.
- D. Velocity is zero and acceleration is maximum downwards.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: At the peak of the object's motion, its velocity is zero because it momentarily stops before changing direction and starts to fall back down. The acceleration at the peak is maximum upwards as gravity is acting against the object's motion, slowing it down until it stops momentarily. Choice A is correct because at the peak, the object's velocity is zero, and the acceleration is maximum upwards. Choice B is incorrect because the velocity is not maximum but zero at the peak. Choice C is incorrect as both velocity and acceleration are not maximum at the peak. Choice D is incorrect as the acceleration at the peak is upwards, opposing the object's motion, not downwards.
Calcitonin, a hormone that helps regulate calcium levels, is produced by the:
- A. Thyroid gland
- B. Parathyroid gland
- C. Thymus gland
- D. Adrenal gland
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It helps regulate calcium levels in the body by inhibiting the breakdown of bone and promoting calcium excretion by the kidneys. The parathyroid gland produces parathyroid hormone (PTH), which works in opposition to calcitonin to regulate calcium levels. The thymus gland is involved in the development of the immune system, and the adrenal gland produces hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Therefore, the correct answer is the thyroid gland as it specifically secretes calcitonin for calcium regulation.
Which of the following is a condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath?
- A. Pneumonia
- B. Tuberculosis
- C. Asthma
- D. Emphysema
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. Pneumonia, caused by an infection in the lungs, presents with symptoms like fever, chills, and cough with sputum. Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs, leading to symptoms such as persistent cough, chest pain, and weight loss. Emphysema, a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is characterized by the destruction of the air sacs in the lungs, causing symptoms like shortness of breath and chronic cough. Therefore, among the options provided, asthma best fits the description of a condition with airway inflammation and narrowing.
What is the primary function of the placenta during pregnancy?
- A. Produce insulin
- B. Facilitate gas exchange between mother and fetus
- C. Excrete waste products from the fetus
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The primary function of the placenta during pregnancy is to facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the mother and the fetus. This ensures that the fetus receives oxygen and eliminates carbon dioxide, supporting its growth and development. While the placenta also allows for the transfer of nutrients and waste products between the mother and the fetus, its main role is to ensure proper gas exchange. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary role of the placenta is not to produce insulin or excrete waste products from the fetus. Selecting the correct answer, choice B, highlights the crucial role of the placenta in providing oxygen to the fetus and removing carbon dioxide, which are essential for fetal well-being and development.
Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is the most abundant antibody type, responsible for:
- A. Immediate allergic reactions
- B. Neutralizing toxins and viruses
- C. Activating other immune cells
- D. Protecting newborns from infections
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) is indeed the most prevalent antibody type in the blood and tissue fluids. Its primary functions include neutralizing toxins and viruses, promoting phagocytosis, and activating the complement system. IgG plays a crucial role in long-term immunity and provides passive immunity to newborns by crossing the placenta, safeguarding them from infections. Immediate allergic reactions are mainly mediated by IgE, not IgG. While IgM is known for activating other immune cells, IgG focuses on other key functions within the immune response, such as neutralizing pathogens and enhancing phagocytosis. Therefore, the correct answer is B, as IgG is primarily involved in neutralizing toxins and viruses, rather than the other options presented.