What is the coefficient of oxygen in the balanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane (CHâ‚„)?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the balanced chemical equation for the combustion of methane, CH₄ + 2O₂ → CO₂ + 2H₂O, the coefficient of oxygen (O₂) is 2. This indicates that two molecules of oxygen are required to react with one molecule of methane to produce carbon dioxide and water, ensuring the equation is balanced. Choice A is incorrect because the coefficient of oxygen is not 1 but 2. Choices C and D are incorrect as they do not represent the correct coefficient of oxygen in the balanced equation. Understanding the coefficients in a balanced chemical equation is crucial for accurately representing the stoichiometry of the reaction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The abnormal buildup of plaque within the arterial walls.' Atherosclerosis is the process where plaque, consisting of fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances, accumulates within the arteries. This buildup can lead to the hardening and narrowing of arteries, reducing blood flow and potentially causing severe health issues like heart attacks and strokes. Choice B is incorrect because inflammation of the inner lining of blood vessels is known as vasculitis, not atherosclerosis. Choice C is incorrect as it describes an aneurysm, which is a dilation and weakening of a blood vessel wall, not atherosclerosis. Choice D is incorrect as it describes arteriosclerosis, a process of blood vessel wall thickening with age, which is different from atherosclerosis.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, is the hormone produced by the adrenal glands that prepares the body for a 'fight or flight' response. It increases heart rate, dilates airways, and mobilizes energy stores to provide the body with the necessary resources to respond to a perceived threat or stressor. Cortisol, although produced by the adrenal glands, is not responsible for the 'fight or flight' response; it is involved in regulating metabolism, immune response, and stress. Aldosterone, another hormone produced by the adrenal glands, primarily regulates electrolyte and fluid balance. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels and is not directly involved in the 'fight or flight' response.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Aseptic meningitis is typically caused by viral infections, such as enteroviruses (e.g., coxsackievirus, echovirus), herpes simplex virus, varicella-zoster virus, and others. These viruses can infect the meninges, leading to inflammation and symptoms of meningitis without the presence of bacteria. While bacterial meningitis is a serious and life-threatening condition, aseptic meningitis caused by viruses is usually less severe and has a better prognosis. Fungi and parasites are less common causes of meningitis compared to bacteria and viruses.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is the kidneys. The kidneys filter blood and remove waste products through the formation of urine. The liver primarily functions in detoxification and metabolism. The spleen is involved in blood filtering and immune function. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and insulin, not involved in filtering blood.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: - Prophase I occurs in meiosis I, not meiosis II. During Prophase I, homologous chromosomes pair up and exchange genetic material in a process called crossing over. - Prophase II is the stage where the nuclear envelope breaks down, and spindle fibers start to reappear, preparing the cell for division. Sister chromatids are still attached during Prophase II. - Anaphase I is the stage in meiosis I where homologous chromosomes are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell. - Anaphase II is the stage in meiosis II where sister chromatids are separated and pulled to opposite poles of the cell, resulting in four genetically unique daughter cells. This is the stage where the final separation of genetic material occurs, leading to the formation of haploid daughter cells.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A) Morphological evidence involves comparing body structures of organisms, which can provide information about evolutionary relationships based on physical similarities and differences. However, DNA comparison is a more direct and accurate method for understanding evolutionary relationships. B) Biochemical evidence involves comparing molecules like proteins, which can also provide insights into evolutionary relationships. However, DNA comparison is considered more reliable due to the direct relationship between DNA sequences and genetic information. C) Geographic distribution evidence refers to where organisms live and how their distribution may provide clues about evolutionary history. While this can be informative, it is not as direct or specific as comparing DNA sequences. D) Genetic evidence involves comparing DNA sequences of different organisms to understand their evolutionary relationships. DNA comparison is a powerful tool in evolutionary biology because it provides direct information about genetic similarities and differences, offering precise insights into evolutionary relationships.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Magnesium is the correct answer. It is essential for the formation of chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants that is crucial for photosynthesis. Chlorophyll absorbs sunlight and uses its energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen. Iron, copper, and zinc do not play a direct role in the green color of leaves. Iron is more related to processes like electron transport, copper is involved in enzyme functions, and zinc contributes to the synthesis of plant growth regulators.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The defining characteristic of an element is determined by the number of protons in its nucleus, which is referred to as the atomic number. The number of protons uniquely identifies an element. The correct answer is choice C because the number of protons in the nucleus of an atom defines its elemental identity, as different elements have a unique number of protons. Neutrons and electrons do play essential roles in the atom, but they do not determine the defining characteristic of an element. Neutrons contribute to the stability of the nucleus and isotopes of an element, while electrons are involved in chemical bonding and the reactivity of an atom.