What potential consequences can chromosomal nondisjunction have on offspring?
- A. Down syndrome, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.
- B. Turner syndrome, characterized by the absence of one X chromosome in females.
- C. Klinefelter syndrome, featuring one or more extra X chromosomes in males.
- D. All of the above.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: - Chromosomal nondisjunction is the failure of homologous chromosomes or sister chromatids to separate properly during cell division, leading to an abnormal number of chromosomes in the resulting cells.
- Down syndrome is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, resulting from nondisjunction during meiosis. Individuals with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21 instead of the usual two.
- Turner syndrome is characterized by the absence of one X chromosome in females, leading to a variety of physical and developmental features.
- Klinefelter syndrome features one or more extra X chromosomes in males, typically resulting in infertility and other physical characteristics.
Therefore, chromosomal nondisjunction can lead to various genetic disorders such as Down syndrome, Turner syndrome, and Klinefelter syndrome, making option D the correct answer.
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What term refers to the point of contact between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber, where communication occurs to initiate muscle contraction?
- A. Sarcomere
- B. Synapse
- C. Tendon
- D. Myofibril
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Synapse.' The synapse is the specific term that refers to the point of contact between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber, where communication occurs to initiate muscle contraction. At the synapse, neurotransmitters are released by the motor neuron, triggering the muscle fiber to contract. Choice A, 'Sarcomere,' is incorrect as a sarcomere is the basic unit of muscle contraction, not the point of contact between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber. Choice C, 'Tendon,' is incorrect as tendons are fibrous connective tissues that connect muscle to bone, not involved in neuronal communication. Choice D, 'Myofibril,' is incorrect as a myofibril is a structure within muscle fibers where muscle contractions occur, not the specific point of contact for communication between a motor neuron and a muscle fiber.
Which hormone, produced by the thyroid gland, plays a key role in regulating calcium levels in the blood by promoting calcium release from bones and increasing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys?
- A. Calcitonin
- B. Parathyroid hormone (PTH)
- C. Thyroxine
- D. Insulin
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Calcitonin, produced by the thyroid gland, is responsible for regulating calcium levels in the blood. It works by decreasing blood calcium levels through two main mechanisms: promoting calcium uptake by bones and decreasing calcium reabsorption in the kidneys. Parathyroid hormone (PTH), on the other hand, increases blood calcium levels by promoting calcium release from bones and increasing calcium absorption in the intestines. Thyroxine, another thyroid hormone, primarily regulates metabolism and has no direct influence on calcium levels. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, is involved in regulating blood sugar levels and is not related to calcium homeostasis.
Epithelial tissue, which covers surfaces, is further classified based on the number of cell layers. Simple epithelium has:
- A. No layers
- B. One layer
- C. Two to several layers
- D. Many tightly packed layers
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Simple epithelium consists of a single layer of cells. This type of epithelium is found in areas where absorption, secretion, and filtration occur, as it allows for efficient exchange of substances across the epithelial barrier. Simple epithelium is well-suited for diffusion and filtration processes due to its thin nature, enabling substances to pass through easily. Choice A, 'No layers,' is incorrect as epithelial tissue always consists of at least one cell layer. Choice C, 'Two to several layers,' describes stratified epithelium, not simple epithelium, which has only one layer. Choice D, 'Many tightly packed layers,' is more characteristic of stratified epithelium, where multiple layers of cells are present. Therefore, the correct answer is B: 'One layer.'
Which of the following is a property of amphiprotic substances?
- A. React with acids only
- B. React with bases only
- C. Can act as both acids and bases
- D. Are inert in chemical reactions
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Can act as both acids and bases. Amphiprotic substances have the ability to donate a proton (act as an acid) or accept a proton (act as a base) depending on the reaction conditions. This dual nature allows them to participate in a wide range of chemical reactions, making them versatile and important in various chemical processes. Choices A and B are incorrect because amphiprotic substances are not limited to reacting with only acids or bases; they can interact with both. Choice D is incorrect because amphiprotic substances are not inert; they actively participate in chemical reactions by donating or accepting protons.
Where is the primary site for nutrient absorption from digested food in the human digestive system?
- A. Esophagus
- B. Large intestine
- C. Small intestine
- D. Stomach
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the human digestive system. It is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients from food occurs. The walls of the small intestine are lined with tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption. Nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine and into the bloodstream to be transported to cells throughout the body for energy and other functions. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach and plays a role in swallowing, not nutrient absorption. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter after the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. The stomach mainly functions in the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food through muscular contractions and the secretion of digestive enzymes.