What is the role of the spindle apparatus in cell division?
- A. To separate sister chromatids
- B. To move chromosomes to opposite poles of the cell
- C. To form a new nuclear envelope around each daughter cell
- D. To synthesize new DNA
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The spindle apparatus, composed of microtubules, plays a crucial role in cell division (mitosis and meiosis) by ensuring proper chromosome separation and distribution to opposite poles of the cell. This segregation is vital for creating two genetically identical daughter cells in mitosis or four haploid daughter cells in meiosis. Choice A is incorrect because the separation of sister chromatids is specifically carried out by kinetochore fibers within the spindle apparatus. Choice C is inaccurate as the formation of a new nuclear envelope occurs post chromosome segregation. Choice D is incorrect as DNA synthesis does not occur within the spindle apparatus; it takes place during the S phase of the cell cycle.
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What property of matter explains why ice floats on water?
- A. Viscosity
- B. Density
- C. Buoyancy
- D. Surface tension
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C, buoyancy. Ice floats on water due to buoyancy, a property of matter. When water freezes into ice, it becomes less dense than liquid water, causing it to float. This phenomenon occurs because the molecules in ice are more spread out compared to liquid water, resulting in ice being less dense and able to float on the surface.
Choice A, viscosity, is incorrect because viscosity refers to a fluid's resistance to flow, not its ability to float.
Choice B, density, is incorrect because while ice being less dense than water is the reason it floats, this choice does not explain the specific property that causes this phenomenon.
Choice D, surface tension, is incorrect as it pertains to the cohesive forces between molecules at the surface of a liquid, not the reason why ice floats on water.
Which term in physics describes the resistance of an object to changes in its motion?
- A. Inertia
- B. Momentum
- C. Gravity
- D. Kinetic energy
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Inertia is the term that describes the resistance of an object to changes in its motion. This property is explained by Newton's First Law of Motion, which states that objects tend to maintain their state of motion unless acted upon by an external force. Inertia is closely related to mass, where objects with more mass exhibit more resistance to changes in motion. Momentum (B) is the product of an object's mass and velocity, gravity (C) is the force of attraction between objects, and kinetic energy (D) is the energy associated with an object's motion. Therefore, the correct answer is A because inertia specifically addresses the resistance of an object to changes in its motion.
What is the primary function of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in gene editing?
- A. To amplify specific DNA sequences.
- B. To cut DNA at specific locations.
- C. To deliver genes into cells.
- D. To sequence entire genomes.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The CRISPR-Cas9 system is a powerful tool used in gene editing to precisely target and cut DNA at specific locations within the genome. This system consists of a guide RNA that directs the Cas9 enzyme to the desired DNA sequence, where it creates a double-strand break. This break can then be repaired by the cell's natural DNA repair mechanisms, allowing for the introduction of specific genetic modifications. Options A, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately describe the primary function of the CRISPR-Cas9 system in gene editing. Amplifying DNA sequences, delivering genes into cells, and sequencing entire genomes are not the main functions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system, which is primarily focused on precise DNA cutting for targeted genetic modifications.
What is the main function of calcitonin, a hormone produced by the thyroid gland?
- A. Stimulate metabolism and heat production
- B. Increase calcium absorption from the intestines
- C. Enhance bone growth and development
- D. Lower blood calcium levels
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Calcitonin is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that primarily functions to lower blood calcium levels. It achieves this by inhibiting bone breakdown and promoting calcium excretion by the kidneys. Therefore, the correct answer is D as it reflects the main role of calcitonin in calcium homeostasis. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not align with the primary function of calcitonin. Calcitonin does not stimulate metabolism and heat production (Choice A), increase calcium absorption from the intestines (Choice B), or enhance bone growth and development (Choice C).
What is the difference between a prokaryotic cell and a eukaryotic cell?
- A. Prokaryotic cells have a nucleus, while eukaryotic cells do not
- B. Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus, while prokaryotic cells do not.
- C. Prokaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while eukaryotic cells do not.
- D. Eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles, while prokaryotic cells do not.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: - Prokaryotic cells are simpler and do not have a true nucleus. Their genetic material is located in the nucleoid region, which is not enclosed by a membrane.
- Eukaryotic cells are more complex and have a true nucleus that houses the genetic material, enclosed within a nuclear membrane.
- Both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells have organelles, but eukaryotic cells have membrane-bound organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus, while prokaryotic cells lack these membrane-bound organelles.