Nokea
Which of the following is NOT a recognized mode of natural selection?
- A. Directional selection (favoring one extreme trait value on a spectrum)
- B. Disruptive selection (favoring both extreme trait values on a spectrum)
- C. Stabilizing selection (favoring the average trait value on a spectrum)
- D. Sexual selection (selection based on mate choice that influences reproductive success)
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A) Directional selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where one extreme trait value on a spectrum is favored over others, leading to a shift in the average trait value over time. B) Disruptive selection is a recognized mode of natural selection where both extreme trait values on a spectrum are favored over the average trait value, potentially causing the population to split into distinct groups. C) Stabilizing selection is a recognized mode of natural selection favoring the average trait value on a spectrum over extreme values, resulting in reduced genetic diversity. D) Sexual selection differs from traditional natural selection modes as it involves mate choice and competition for mates, not direct selection pressure on traits affecting survival and reproduction in the environment. Sexual selection can drive the evolution of traits enhancing an individual's attractiveness for mating purposes.
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Which part of the neuron insulates and speeds up the transmission of nerve impulses along the axon?
- A. Dendrite
- B. Myelin sheath
- C. Synapse
- D. Cell body
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The myelin sheath is a fatty layer that surrounds the axon of a neuron, providing insulation and speeding up the transmission of nerve impulses. This insulation helps prevent the loss of electrical signals as they travel along the axon, allowing for faster and more efficient communication within the nervous system. Dendrites are branching extensions of a neuron that receive signals from other neurons, the synapse is the junction between two neurons where communication occurs, and the cell body contains the nucleus and organelles of the neuron, but none of these structures provide insulation for the transmission of nerve impulses along the axon.
Which hormone, produced by the pancreas, regulates blood sugar levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells?
- A. Insulin
- B. Glucagon
- C. Cortisol
- D. Thyroxine
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Insulin is the correct answer. It is produced by the pancreas and plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels by facilitating the absorption of glucose into cells. When blood sugar levels are elevated, insulin is released to help cells utilize glucose for energy or store it for future use. Glucagon, choice B, is produced by the pancreas as well but has the opposite effect of raising blood sugar levels by releasing stored glucose into the bloodstream. Cortisol, choice C, is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that is involved in the stress response and metabolism, not specifically in regulating blood sugar levels. Thyroxine, choice D, is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland that regulates metabolism but is not directly involved in the uptake of glucose into cells.
What are the moon-shaped white structures at the base of fingernails called?
- A. Lunulae
- B. Cuticle
- C. Hyponychium
- D. Matrix
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lunulae. The moon-shaped white structures at the base of fingernails are known as lunulae. They are most prominent on the thumb and are situated at the base of the nail matrix. The lunula is the visible part of the nail matrix, which is responsible for generating new nail cells. Choice B, Cuticle, is incorrect as it refers to the thin layer of skin at the base of the nail plate. Choice C, Hyponychium, is incorrect as it is the skin that lies beneath the free edge of the nail. Choice D, Matrix, is incorrect as it is the area where the nail is formed, located under the cuticle.
Which structure in the heart is responsible for preventing the backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium?
- A. Aortic valve
- B. Pulmonary valve
- C. Tricuspid valve
- D. Mitral valve
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The mitral valve, also known as the bicuspid valve, is located between the left atrium and the left ventricle of the heart. Its primary function is to prevent the backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium during ventricular contraction. The aortic valve (A) prevents the backflow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle, the pulmonary valve (B) prevents the backflow of blood from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle, and the tricuspid valve (C) prevents the backflow of blood from the right ventricle into the right atrium. Understanding the functions of these heart valves is crucial in maintaining proper blood flow through the heart and preventing regurgitation of blood into the wrong chambers.
During normal breathing, which muscle is the primary driver of inhalation by contracting and flattening to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity?
- A. Diaphragm
- B. Intercostal muscles
- C. Abdominal muscles
- D. Pectoral muscles
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The diaphragm is the primary muscle responsible for inhalation during normal breathing. When it contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and creating a negative pressure that allows air to flow into the lungs. Intercostal muscles also play a role in expanding the chest cavity during inhalation, but the diaphragm is the main driver of the process. Abdominal muscles are primarily involved in exhalation by pushing the diaphragm upward to expel air from the lungs. Pectoral muscles are involved in movements of the arms and shoulders, not in breathing, making them incorrect choices for this question.