A satellite orbits the Earth at a constant speed. Which force is responsible for its circular motion?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The gravitational force from the Earth is responsible for keeping the satellite in its circular orbit. This force provides the necessary centripetal force required to maintain the circular motion of the satellite. The gravitational force acts as the centripetal force, pulling the satellite towards the center of the Earth, thereby keeping it in its circular path. Choices B, C, and D do not provide the necessary force to keep the satellite in its circular path. Thrust from the satellite's engine would change the speed or direction of the satellite, not maintain its circular path. Friction between the satellite and the atmosphere would act as a resistive force, slowing down the satellite rather than maintaining its orbit. The normal force from the Earth's surface is perpendicular to the surface and does not contribute to the circular motion of the satellite. Therefore, the correct answer is A, as the gravitational force acts as the centripetal force to keep the satellite in its circular path around the Earth.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A) Punctuated equilibrium refers to rapid bursts of evolution followed by long periods of stability, rather than gradual change over time in response to environmental pressures. B) Gradualism is the process by which species evolve through slow and continuous changes over time in response to environmental pressures. This gradual change can lead to the development of new traits and adaptations. C) Founder effect is a type of genetic drift that occurs when a small group of individuals establishes a new population, leading to a loss of genetic variation compared to the original population. It does not specifically describe the gradual change in a species over time. D) Adaptive radiation is the rapid diversification of a species into a variety of forms to exploit different ecological niches, but it does not specifically refer to the gradual change in response to environmental pressures. Therefore, the term that best describes the gradual change in a species over time in response to environmental pressures is 'Gradualism.'

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Biogeography is the scientific discipline that focuses on studying the geographical distribution of organisms and the factors that influence their patterns of distribution. This field investigates the reasons behind why species are located where they are, taking into account historical events, ecological interactions, and physical geography. Paleontology (option A) specifically deals with the study of fossils and the history of life on Earth, mainly focusing on extinct organisms. Taxonomy (option B) is the science that involves classifying and naming organisms based on their characteristics. Population genetics (option D) is concerned with the study of genetic variation and evolutionary processes within populations of organisms. Therefore, in the context of studying the distribution of organisms across space and time, biogeography is the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The diaphragm is the correct answer. It is a dome-shaped muscular structure that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in breathing by contracting and relaxing to change thoracic volume during inhalation and exhalation. The sternum is a flat bone in the center of the chest and is not the structure that separates the chest and abdominal cavities. The pericardium is a membrane that surrounds the heart, not involved in separating cavities. The trachea is the windpipe that connects the larynx to the bronchi and is not the structure that separates the chest and abdominal cavities.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Mitochondria. The energy for most cellular processes is produced in the mitochondria through the process of cellular respiration. Mitochondria are often referred to as the powerhouse of the cell because they generate ATP, the energy currency of the cell. This process involves the breakdown of glucose molecules to produce ATP, which fuels various cellular activities. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The nucleus is responsible for storing genetic material and controlling cell activities, not energy production. The cytoplasm is where various cellular activities take place, but it is not the primary site for energy production. Ribosomes are involved in protein synthesis and do not generate energy for cellular processes.