Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A population is defined as a group of organisms of the same species living in the same area and interacting with one another. Option A correctly describes this definition by specifying that the organisms are of the same species and share a common geographical location. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately define a population in biological terms. In this context, a population specifically refers to a group of organisms belonging to the same species, not higher taxonomic ranks like genus, kingdom, or phylum.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Erectile dysfunction can be caused by various factors, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurological disorders. These conditions can impact blood flow, nerve function, and hormone levels, all crucial for achieving and maintaining an erection. Diabetes can lead to nerve damage and affect blood circulation. Cardiovascular disease can restrict blood flow to the penis. Neurological disorders can interfere with the transmission of nerve signals between the brain and the reproductive organs. Therefore, all the factors mentioned in options A, B, and C can contribute to erectile dysfunction in males.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: At the peak of a baseball's trajectory, the ball momentarily stops moving upwards before it starts to fall back down. During this moment of temporary rest, the only force acting on the ball is the gravitational force pulling it downward towards the Earth. The force of air resistance is negligible at this point because the ball is momentarily stationary, and air resistance requires motion to be significant. Therefore, the correct answer is that only the gravitational force is acting on the ball at the peak of its trajectory. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because air resistance does not have a significant effect when the ball is at its peak and momentarily stationary.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system is to prevent food from entering the trachea. During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the opening of the trachea, guiding food down the esophagus to the stomach and preventing it from entering the airway. This mechanism safeguards the respiratory system from foreign objects, ensuring proper air passage and avoiding potential choking hazards. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A) Filtration of air is mainly performed by the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. B) Production of mucus is primarily carried out by the mucous glands in the respiratory system to trap particles and humidify the air. D) Oxygen exchange in the alveoli occurs in the lungs and is related to the process of respiration, not the function of the epiglottis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Autoimmune diseases result from a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms, leading to the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy body tissues. While deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals or exposure to environmental toxins can impact overall health, they are not direct causes of autoimmune diseases. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals may weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to various health issues but does not directly cause autoimmune diseases. Exposure to environmental toxins can trigger immune responses, but autoimmune diseases specifically stem from the breakdown of self-tolerance mechanisms within immune cells. Therefore, the correct answer is a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms.