Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: The atomic number of an atom is the number of protons in its nucleus. This number uniquely identifies the element, as each element has a distinct number of protons. Neutrons and electrons play roles in the atom's structure and stability, but the atomic number specifically refers to the number of protons. Choice B (The number of neutrons in an atom) is incorrect because the atomic number does not include neutrons; it only represents the number of protons. Choice C (The number of electrons in an atom) is incorrect because the atomic number is not related to the number of electrons, which can vary in different atomic configurations. Choice D (The sum of protons and neutrons) is incorrect because it refers to the mass number of an atom, which is the total number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus, not just the protons.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Smooth muscle is the only involuntary, non-striated muscle type in the body. It is found in organs like the intestines and blood vessels, where it controls movements without conscious effort. Choice A is incorrect because voluntary muscles are under conscious control, while smooth muscle is involuntary. Choice C is incorrect because striations are not present in smooth muscle, unlike skeletal muscle. Choice D is incorrect because smooth muscle is not voluntary and lacks striations, making it different from skeletal muscle.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: An isotope of an element is an atom with a different number of neutrons, resulting in a different mass number. Isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons (which determines the element's identity) but differ in the number of neutrons, leading to variations in mass numbers. Choice A is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same atomic number. Choice B is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons. Choice C is incorrect because isotopes of the same element have the same number of electrons.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The tricuspid valve (right atrioventricular valve) prevents backflow into the right atrium when the right ventricle contracts. This valve ensures that blood flows in the correct direction, preventing regurgitation into the atrium. The pulmonary valve is responsible for preventing backflow into the right ventricle from the pulmonary artery. The mitral valve prevents backflow into the left atrium, and the aortic valve prevents backflow into the left ventricle from the aorta. Therefore, the correct answer is the tricuspid valve as it specifically addresses the scenario of backflow into the atrium during ventricular contraction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The forebrain is primarily responsible for higher cognitive functions such as perception, interpretation, and integration of sensory information, emotional responses, and voluntary movements. Functions like regulating blood pressure and heart rate are mainly controlled by various structures in the brainstem, such as the medulla oblongata and the pons. Choices B, C, and D are all functions associated with the forebrain. Choice B relates to the limbic system, which is part of the forebrain responsible for emotional responses. Choice C corresponds to the occipital lobe in the forebrain, involved in processing visual information. Choice D involves the motor cortex and other areas in the forebrain that coordinate voluntary movements.