What scientific term encompasses a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence?
- A. Trait
- B. Mutation
- C. Allele
- D. Variation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: A) Trait: A trait is a characteristic or feature of an organism that is determined by its genes.
B) Mutation: A mutation is a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence that can result from errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens, or other factors.
C) Allele: An allele is a variant form of a gene that can result in different traits or characteristics.
D) Variation: Variation refers to the differences in traits or characteristics among individuals of the same species, which can be influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
In this context, the term that specifically refers to a permanent alteration in the DNA sequence is "mutation."
You may also like to solve these questions
Homologous structures are those that:
- A. Have the same function but different origins
- B. Have different functions but the same origin
- C. Are similar in appearance and function due to shared ancestry
- D. Are identical in both appearance and function
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Homologous structures are defined as anatomical features that are similar in appearance and function due to shared ancestry. This means that these structures are inherited from a common ancestor and may have evolved to fulfill different functions in different species. Option A, which mentions structures with the same function but different origins, describes analogous structures, not homologous ones. Option B, which refers to structures with different functions but the same origin, actually characterizes vestigial structures. Option D, stating that structures are identical in appearance and function, does not necessarily imply homology; such structures could result from convergent evolution rather than shared ancestry. Understanding homologous structures provides insights into the evolutionary relationships between different species and supports the concept of common descent.
What is the main function of the gallbladder?
- A. To store and concentrate bile
- B. To produce digestive enzymes
- C. To absorb nutrients
- D. To neutralize stomach acid
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver that plays a crucial role in the digestive system. Its main function is to store and concentrate bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. Bile is released from the gallbladder into the small intestine to help with the digestion and absorption of fats. The gallbladder acts as a reservoir for bile, allowing it to be released in a controlled manner when needed to aid in the digestion of fatty foods. Option A is the correct answer as it accurately describes the main function of the gallbladder. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the gallbladder does not produce digestive enzymes, absorb nutrients, or neutralize stomach acid. These functions are carried out by other organs in the digestive system, such as the pancreas, small intestine, and stomach, respectively.
Where is the thymus gland, crucial for immune system development, located?
- A. Chest
- B. Abdomen
- C. Pelvis
- D. Head and neck
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The thymus gland is located in the chest, specifically in the upper part of the chest behind the breastbone (sternum). It plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of T-lymphocytes (T cells), which are important for the immune system's function. Choice B (Abdomen), C (Pelvis), and D (Head and neck) are incorrect locations for the thymus gland. The thymus is not found in the abdomen, pelvis, head, or neck regions; it is uniquely situated in the upper chest area.
Which enzyme found in saliva is responsible for breaking down carbohydrates into smaller molecules like sugars?
- A. Pepsin
- B. Amylase
- C. Lipase
- D. Trypsin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Saliva contains an enzyme called amylase, which specifically targets carbohydrates and breaks them down into smaller molecules like sugars. Pepsin, choice A, is an enzyme found in the stomach that breaks down proteins, not carbohydrates. Lipase, choice C, is responsible for breaking down fats, not carbohydrates. Trypsin, choice D, is an enzyme that breaks down proteins in the small intestine, not carbohydrates. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect for this question.
What term describes the maximum displacement of particles from their rest position in a wave?
- A. Frequency
- B. Wavelength
- C. Amplitude
- D. Velocity
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The term that describes the maximum displacement of particles from their rest position in a wave is called the amplitude. Amplitude is a measure of the strength or intensity of a wave and is represented by the height of the wave from the rest position to the crest (or trough) of the wave. Frequency (A) refers to the number of complete wavelengths that pass a point in a given time. Wavelength (B) is the distance between two consecutive crests (or troughs) of a wave. Velocity (D) is the speed of the wave, not the maximum displacement of particles from their rest position.