What is a mutation?

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: According to Newton's second law of motion, the acceleration of an object is directly proportional to the net force acting on it and inversely proportional to its mass. This relationship is mathematically expressed as F = ma, where F represents force, m represents mass, and a represents acceleration. Therefore, an increase in force will result in a proportional increase in acceleration, supporting the statement that force is directly proportional to acceleration. Choice B is incorrect as it suggests an inverse relationship, which is not consistent with Newton's second law. Choice C is incorrect because force and acceleration are indeed related as per Newton's second law. Choice D is incorrect as force can cause acceleration or deceleration depending on the direction of the force relative to the motion of the object, but it does not exclusively cause deceleration.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Acceleration is defined as the rate of change of velocity with respect to time. The correct formula to calculate acceleration is Acceleration = Time Change in Velocity. This formula specifically represents how much an object's velocity changes over a specified time period, providing a measure of the object's speed change rate. Choices A and B are incorrect as they do not represent the relationship between acceleration and time change in velocity. Choice C is incorrect as it involves time and distance, which are not directly related to acceleration.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Mass is the amount of matter in an object and is a scalar quantity, whereas weight is the force of gravity acting on an object and is a vector quantity. Mass remains constant regardless of the location, while weight can vary depending on the strength of gravity at different locations. Answer choice A correctly defines the difference between mass and weight, making it the correct answer. Choice B is incorrect because mass is not a measure of inertia. Choice C is incorrect as mass is typically measured in kilograms, not pounds. Choice D is incorrect as mass is a scalar quantity, and weight is a vector quantity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Proteins are made up of long chains of amino acids, and there are 20 standard amino acids commonly found in proteins. The sequence and arrangement of these amino acids determine the structure and function of a protein. While proteins can vary in size and complexity, the number of amino acids typically ranges from around 10 to 20 in smaller proteins to hundreds or even thousands in larger proteins. Therefore, the range of 10-20 amino acids is the most accurate representation of the number of amino acids that can make up a protein. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they provide ranges that are beyond the typical number of amino acids found in proteins and may lead to confusion. The correct answer is A (10-20).