The outermost layer of your skin, responsible for waterproofing and providing a barrier against pathogens, is the:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Stratum corneum. The stratum corneum is the outermost layer of the epidermis, consisting of dead skin cells that are constantly shed and replaced. It serves as a protective barrier against pathogens and helps to prevent water loss from the body. Choice A, Stratum basale, is the deepest layer of the epidermis where new skin cells are produced. Choice C, Stratum granulosum, is a layer of the epidermis where the cells begin to flatten and lose their nuclei. Choice D, Stratum spinosum, is a layer of the epidermis where cells become irregular in shape and have spiny projections.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The femur is indeed the longest bone in the human body. It extends from the hip to the knee, providing crucial support for the body's weight and enabling various movements. The tibia and fibula are bones in the lower leg, while the humerus is located in the upper arm. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect in this context.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, Gliding joint. Gliding joints allow for side-to-side bending movements. These joints are found between the small bones of the wrist and ankle, allowing for flexibility and movement in multiple directions. Hinge joints (A) enable movement in one plane, akin to a door hinge. Ball-and-socket joints (B) allow for a wide range of motion across multiple directions. Saddle joints (D) facilitate movement in two planes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Maintaining good muscle strength and flexibility as we age is crucial to prevent falls. Strong muscles and good flexibility help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries, especially in older adults. Falls are a significant concern for the elderly population, and preventing them through muscle strength and flexibility can enhance overall quality of life. Headaches are not directly related to muscle strength and flexibility; they can have various causes such as stress, dehydration, or underlying health conditions. Anxiety is a mental health condition and not directly prevented by muscle strength and flexibility. Similarly, the common cold is a viral infection and is not influenced by muscle strength and flexibility.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, the medulla oblongata. This part of the brain, located at the base of the brainstem, is primarily responsible for regulating essential functions like heart rate, breathing, and swallowing. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The cerebrum is associated with higher brain functions such as thinking and voluntary movements, the cerebellum controls coordination and balance, and the thalamus serves as a relay station for sensory information. Therefore, the medulla oblongata specifically governs the autonomic functions critical for survival.