The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and organs that plays a vital role in:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Carrying waste products away from tissues. The lymphatic system functions to maintain fluid balance in the body by removing excess fluid, filtering out harmful substances, and transporting waste products away from tissues. It does not primarily focus on transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells, regulating body temperature, or producing red blood cells. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as the primary function of the lymphatic system is related to waste removal and maintaining fluid balance in the body, rather than roles such as nutrient transport, temperature regulation, or red blood cell production.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A) This statement is true. Prions are infectious agents composed entirely of protein, lacking nucleic acids such as DNA or RNA. They are known for causing neurodegenerative diseases in animals and humans. B) This statement is false. Prions are not easily destroyed by common disinfectants due to their unique structure and resistance to conventional sterilization methods. C) This statement is false. Prions are not a type of antibiotic. They are a distinct class of infectious agents. D) This statement is false. Prions are not live organisms but rather misfolded proteins that can induce abnormal folding in normal proteins, leading to disease.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Endotoxins are toxic substances that are part of the outer membrane of the cell wall of gram-negative bacteria. These toxins are released when the bacteria are destroyed or during bacterial growth. Endotoxins can cause a variety of harmful effects in the host, including fever, inflammation, and septic shock. Viruses do not produce endotoxins; they are typically associated with producing viral proteins that can be toxic to host cells. Gram-positive bacteria produce exotoxins, which are different from endotoxins found in gram-negative bacteria. Parasites, though capable of causing diseases, are not typically associated with the production of endotoxins.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter, such as dead plants and animals, into simpler substances. By doing so, they help to recycle nutrients back into the environment, making them available for other organisms to use. This process is essential for the functioning of ecosystems, as it ensures that nutrients are not lost but instead are continuously cycled through the ecosystem. Photosynthesis (option A) is the process by which plants and some other organisms convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose, and it is not a role of decomposers. Preying on herbivores (option C) is a role typically carried out by predators, not decomposers. Fixing nitrogen from the atmosphere (option D) is a process carried out by nitrogen-fixing bacteria, not decomposers.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Biodiversity refers to the variety of living organisms in a particular area. A diverse ecosystem is better able to withstand and recover from disturbances such as natural disasters, climate change, or human impacts. This is because different species play unique roles in the ecosystem, and a higher level of biodiversity means there are more species available to fulfill these roles. For example, if one species is negatively affected by a disturbance, other species may be able to compensate for its loss, maintaining the overall functioning of the ecosystem. Therefore, biodiversity provides stability and resilience to disturbances, making ecosystems healthier and more sustainable. Choice A is incorrect because biodiversity doesn't increase competition for resources but rather helps in maintaining a balance within the ecosystem. Choice C is incorrect as biodiversity does not slow down nutrient cycling; in fact, it enhances nutrient cycling by ensuring a variety of species involved in the process. Choice D is incorrect as biodiversity does not reduce the number of decomposers but instead supports a diverse community of decomposers that are essential for nutrient recycling in ecosystems.