Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the scientific method, defining the problem is typically the initial step. Before gathering qualitative data, it is essential to clearly outline and understand the issue or question being addressed. This step helps in guiding the research process and ensures that the data collected are relevant to the problem at hand. Communicating with a scientific journal (Choice A) is not a standard step in the scientific method; it comes after the research is conducted. Developing a hypothesis (Choice C) usually follows defining the problem and precedes data collection. Categorizing data for statistical analysis (Choice D) occurs after data collection, not before gathering qualitative data.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ball-and-socket joint. A ball-and-socket joint, like those in the shoulder and hip, allows for a wide range of motion. In a ball-and-socket joint, the rounded end of one bone fits into the cup-like socket of another bone, enabling movement in multiple directions. Choice A, Hinge joint, is incorrect because hinge joints allow movement only in one plane, like a door hinge. Choice C, Pivot joint, is incorrect as it allows rotational movement around a single axis, not the wide range of motion seen in the shoulder and hip. Choice D, Saddle joint, is also incorrect as it allows movement in multiple directions but to a lesser extent compared to the ball-and-socket joint.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The rib cage plays a crucial role in protecting vital organs, specifically the lungs and heart, from external injuries. Choice A is incorrect because the rib cage does not primarily protect the digestive organs. Choice C is incorrect as the primary function of the rib cage is not to support movement, but to protect internal organs. Choice D is incorrect as regulating body temperature is not a function typically associated with the rib cage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Osmosis is the process where water moves across a selectively permeable membrane from an area of low solute concentration to an area of high solute concentration. Choice A is incorrect because osmosis does not involve movement against the concentration gradient. Choice C is incorrect because osmosis primarily involves the movement of water, not water and solutes together. Choice D is incorrect as osmosis specifically refers to the movement of water molecules, not large molecules, through a membrane.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Femur. Long bones are characterized by their elongated shape, with examples including the femur, humerus, and tibia. These bones are essential for support, movement, and bone marrow production. Choice B, 'Ribs and cranial bones,' consists of flat bones, not long bones. Choice C, 'Sesamoid,' refers to small bones embedded within tendons and do not fall under the category of long bones. Choice D, 'Vertebrae and hip bones,' includes irregular bones that provide structural support and protection for vital organs, but they are not classified as long bones.