Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A mutation is defined as a change in the DNA sequence, which can occur due to various factors such as errors during DNA replication, exposure to mutagens (e.g., chemicals, radiation), or spontaneous changes. These alterations can lead to modifications in the genetic information carried by an organism, resulting in effects that can range from harmless variations to causing genetic disorders or diseases. Mutations play a crucial role in genetic diversity and evolution. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define what a mutation is. Option B is incorrect because mutations are not a type of protein but rather changes in DNA. Option C is incorrect because while mutations can occur during DNA replication, they are not considered a 'normal' part of the process as they can lead to genetic variations. Option D is incorrect because mutations can have a wide range of effects and are not always harmless variations.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: At the peak of its trajectory, the ball momentarily stops moving upwards before it starts to fall back down. At this point, the only force acting on the ball is gravity, pulling it back towards the ground. Air resistance is negligible at the peak of the trajectory as the ball is momentarily stationary. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Gravity only.' Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Option B is incorrect because air resistance is minimal when the ball is at its highest point and its velocity is nearly zero. Option C is incorrect as gravity is the only significant force acting on the ball at that instant. Option D is incorrect since air resistance is not a significant factor at the peak of the trajectory.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. When a guitar string vibrates to produce sound, the energy transformation that occurs is from potential energy (stored energy in the string when it is stretched) to kinetic energy (energy of motion as the string vibrates back and forth). As the string vibrates, its kinetic energy is transferred to the surrounding air molecules, producing sound energy. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A, mechanical energy to thermal energy, does not align with the energy transformation involved in producing sound from a vibrating guitar string. Choice B, kinetic energy to potential energy, is the opposite of what happens when a guitar string vibrates. Choice C, electrical energy to sound energy, is not relevant to the energy conversion process in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The medulla oblongata is a critical part of the brainstem responsible for regulating essential functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. It houses centers that oversee these involuntary processes, making it the correct answer. The pons, midbrain, and thalamus do not primarily control heart rate and breathing, thus making them incorrect choices for this question.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In physics, power is defined as the rate at which work is done, which refers to the amount of energy transferred or converted per unit time. Choice B, 'The amount of force applied,' is incorrect as power is related to work done, not just force. Choice C, 'The distance an object travels,' is not the definition of power but rather relates to displacement or distance. Choice D, 'The potential energy of an object,' is not the correct definition of power; potential energy is different from power. Therefore, the correct definition of power in physics is the rate at which work is done.