Which compound is a component of baking soda and is important for maintaining pH balance in the body?
- A. Potassium
- B. Sodium
- C. Calcium
- D. Sodium bicarbonate
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D, Sodium bicarbonate. Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a compound that plays a crucial role in maintaining pH balance in the body. When ingested, sodium bicarbonate acts as a buffer, helping to regulate the body's pH levels. It is essential for various physiological functions. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Potassium, calcium, and sodium are important minerals in the body but are not components of baking soda or directly responsible for maintaining pH balance in the same way as sodium bicarbonate.
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What information can be obtained from the mass number of an element?
- A. The number of protons in the nucleus
- B. The total number of protons and neutrons
- C. The number of electrons in the valence shell
- D. The element's chemical reactivity
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The mass number of an element represents the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus. This information is crucial for determining the atomic mass of the element and understanding its stability and isotopes. The number of protons in the nucleus (option A) is represented by the atomic number, not the mass number. The number of electrons in the valence shell (option C) is related to the element's position in the periodic table and its chemical properties, but it is not directly determined by the mass number. The element's chemical reactivity (option D) is influenced by the number and arrangement of electrons in the atom's energy levels, not by the mass number.
What is the term for a group of organisms with the same genetic makeup?
- A. Population
- B. Clone
- C. Genotype
- D. Species
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In this context, a clone (option B) is a group of organisms that are genetically identical because they are derived from a single ancestor. A population (option A) refers to a group of individuals of the same species living in the same area. Genotype (option C) refers to the genetic makeup of an individual organism. Species (option D) refers to a group of organisms that can interbreed and produce fertile offspring. Therefore, the most appropriate choice for the question is 'Clone,' as it specifically refers to organisms with the same genetic makeup.
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 is the primary function of tight junctions, specialized regions between animal cells?
- A. Communication between cells
- B. Anchorage between cells
- C. Selective passage of materials
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Selective passage of materials. Tight junctions act as specialized structures between animal cells that create a barrier to the passage of materials. Their primary function is to prevent the leakage of extracellular fluid and control the selective passage of molecules between cells. This selective control is crucial in regulating the movement of substances across cell layers. Tight junctions do not directly facilitate communication between cells or provide anchorage between cells, as their main role is to regulate the passage of materials. Choices A and B are incorrect as tight junctions do not primarily serve for communication or anchorage between cells.
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.