What is the basic structural and functional unit of the nervous system?
- A. Axon
- B. Neuron
- C. Dendrite
- D. Synapse
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Neuron. Neurons are indeed the basic structural and functional units of the nervous system. Neurons are specialized cells that transmit signals throughout the nervous system, enabling communication and coordination of various functions within the body. While axons, dendrites, and synapses are all essential components of neurons and neural function, the neuron as a whole is considered the fundamental building block responsible for signal transmission. Choice A, Axon, is incorrect because an axon is a part of a neuron responsible for transmitting electrical signals away from the cell body. Choice C, Dendrite, is incorrect because dendrites are extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons. Choice D, Synapse, is incorrect because a synapse is the junction between two neurons where signals are transmitted.
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From which type of tissue is the myelin sheath derived, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers?
- A. Epithelial tissue
- B. Muscle tissue
- C. Nervous tissue (glial cells)
- D. Connective tissue
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The myelin sheath, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers, is derived from nervous tissue, specifically glial cells. Glial cells, including oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system, are responsible for producing the myelin sheath that surrounds and insulates nerve fibers, aiding in the conduction of nerve impulses. Epithelial tissue (Choice A), Muscle tissue (Choice B), and Connective tissue (Choice D) are not responsible for producing the myelin sheath; instead, nervous tissue (glial cells) plays this crucial role.
The fossil record shows that dinosaurs with feathers existed millions of years before birds. This is evidence for
- A. Convergent evolution (unrelated organisms evolving similar traits)
- B. Divergent evolution (related organisms evolving different traits)
- C. Coevolution (two species influencing each other's evolution)
- D. The extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The fossil record indicates that dinosaurs had feathers before birds, suggesting convergent evolution. Convergent evolution occurs when unrelated organisms independently evolve similar traits to adapt to similar environmental pressures. In this case, both dinosaurs and birds developed feathers for flight or insulation purposes, even though they are not closely related. This evidence supports the concept of convergent evolution rather than divergent evolution, coevolution, or the extinction of dinosaurs due to an asteroid impact. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as it best explains the scenario where dinosaurs with feathers existed before birds, showcasing the concept of unrelated organisms evolving similar traits independently.
Which of the following accurately describes saltatory conduction?
- A. It is faster than normal nerve conduction
- B. It occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next
- C. It only occurs in myelinated neurons
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, 'All of the above.' Saltatory conduction is faster than normal nerve conduction, occurs from one node of Ranvier to the next, and is exclusive to myelinated neurons. This form of conduction allows for the rapid transmission of nerve impulses by the action potential jumping between the nodes of Ranvier in myelinated neurons, enhancing the efficiency of signal propagation along the axon. Choice A is correct as saltatory conduction is indeed faster than normal conduction. Choice B is accurate as it describes the mechanism of conduction 'jumping' from one node of Ranvier to the next. Choice C is correct because saltatory conduction occurs specifically in myelinated neurons where the myelin sheath insulates the axon except at the nodes of Ranvier, facilitating faster transmission of nerve impulses.
Which vitamin is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight?
- A. Vitamin A
- B. Vitamin C
- C. Vitamin D
- D. Vitamin E
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, a form of cholesterol in the skin is converted into vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) through a series of chemical reactions. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health. Choice A, Vitamin A, is not synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight; it is obtained through dietary sources. Choice B, Vitamin C, is not synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight either. Vitamin C is obtained through dietary sources like fruits and vegetables. Choice D, Vitamin E, is not synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and is obtained through dietary sources like nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
What is molarity a measure of in a solution?
- A. Volume of the solvent
- B. Amount of solute
- C. Concentration of solute
- D. Temperature of the solution
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Molarity is a measure of the concentration of a solute in a solution. It is defined as the number of moles of solute per liter of solution. Molarity is not a measure of the volume of the solvent (choice A), the amount of solute (choice B), or the temperature of the solution (choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is the concentration of solute (choice C) as molarity specifically quantifies the solute concentration in a solution.