Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A goiter is a condition characterized by the abnormal enlargement of the thyroid gland. This enlargement can be caused by various factors such as iodine deficiency, thyroid nodules, inflammation, or other thyroid disorders. It is not associated with the overproduction of cortisol (Choice A), underproduction of parathyroid hormone (Choice C), or deficiency of growth hormone (Choice D). Therefore, the correct answer is B, excessive growth of the thyroid gland.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The term that describes the maximum displacement of particles from their rest position in a wave is called the amplitude. Amplitude is a measure of the strength or intensity of a wave and is represented by the height of the wave from the rest position to the crest (or trough) of the wave. Frequency (A) refers to the number of complete wavelengths that pass a point in a given time. Wavelength (B) is the distance between two consecutive crests (or troughs) of a wave. Velocity (D) is the speed of the wave, not the maximum displacement of particles from their rest position.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the epiglottis is to control the passage of food and air. It acts as a cover for the trachea during swallowing to prevent food from entering the airway. This mechanism ensures that food safely travels down the esophagus to the stomach, while air simultaneously enters the trachea and moves into the lungs for respiration. Choice A is incorrect as the warming and humidifying of inhaled air primarily occur in the nasal cavity. Choice C is incorrect because sound production for speech involves structures like the vocal cords rather than the epiglottis. Choice D is incorrect as sensing foreign objects is not a primary function of the epiglottis; instead, this role is typically associated with sensory receptors in the respiratory tract.

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: B

Rationale: - A) Grass: Grass is a primary producer because it can photosynthesize and convert sunlight into energy, making it the base of the food chain. - B) Deer: Deer are consumers that feed on primary producers like grass, so they are not primary producers themselves. - C) Algae: Algae are primary producers that can photosynthesize and produce energy from sunlight. - D) Mushroom: Mushrooms are decomposers that break down organic matter, so they are not primary producers.