Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Decomposers are essential organisms in the ecosystem as they break down dead organisms and organic matter, such as bacteria, fungi, and some insects. By decomposing complex organic materials into simpler forms, they release nutrients back into the environment for other organisms to utilize. Producers (option A) are organisms that generate their own food through photosynthesis; consumers (option C) are organisms that feed on other organisms for energy, and parasites (option D) are organisms that live on or in another organism, benefiting at the host's expense rather than breaking down dead organisms for nutrient recycling.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Reactions that require light energy to proceed are classified as photochemical reactions. Photochemical reactions involve the absorption of light energy to initiate a chemical reaction. Combustion reactions involve the rapid combination of a substance with oxygen, endothermic reactions absorb heat from the surroundings, and double displacement reactions involve the exchange of ions between two compounds. Therefore, the correct term for reactions requiring light energy is 'photochemical reactions,' making option C the correct answer.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The innate immune system provides nonspecific, immediate defense against pathogens. It is the body's first line of defense in responding to infections and does not involve memory cells or specific long-term immune responses like the adaptive immune system. Choice B is incorrect because specific, long-term immune responses through memory cells are characteristics of the adaptive immune system, not the innate immune system. Choice C is incorrect because the innate immune system does not provide specific, long-term immune responses. Choice D is incorrect because the innate immune system does provide an immediate defense against pathogens.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Passive transport refers to the movement of molecules across a cell membrane without the input of energy. Diffusion of small molecules across a concentration gradient is a classic example of passive transport, as it occurs spontaneously from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Active transport (option A) requires energy input in the form of ATP to move substances against their concentration gradient. Movement of large molecules using vesicles (option C) involves processes like endocytosis and exocytosis that require energy in the form of ATP. Endocytosis of particles into the cell (option D) is an active process that requires energy expenditure by the cell to engulf and internalize extracellular substances.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the Cardiac sphincter (lower esophageal sphincter). It is situated at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach, controlling the passage of food into the stomach. The cardiac sphincter opens and closes to regulate the flow of food and prevent reflux. The pyloric sphincter, on the other hand, is located between the stomach and the small intestine, not the esophagus and stomach. The ileocecal valve is positioned between the small and large intestines, while the Sphincter of Oddi is found in the duodenum, not between the esophagus and stomach.