Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The main function of lysosomes is to break down and recycle cellular waste materials, such as old organelles, foreign substances, and cellular debris. This process is crucial for maintaining cellular homeostasis and proper functioning. Storing carbohydrates (B), synthesizing lipids (C), and transcribing DNA into mRNA (D) are not functions typically associated with lysosomes. Storing carbohydrates is primarily done by other organelles like vacuoles. Synthesizing lipids is a function usually associated with the endoplasmic reticulum and transcribing DNA into mRNA occurs in the nucleus by the process of transcription.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When sodium hydroxide (NaOH) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), a neutralization reaction occurs. The products of this reaction are water (H2O) and a salt, which is sodium chloride (NaCl). The chemical equation for this reaction is: NaOH + HCl -> NaCl + H2O. Choice B is incorrect because chlorine gas and sodium oxide are not the products of this reaction. Choice C is incorrect as sodium metal and water are not the products formed in this neutralization reaction. Choice D is incorrect because a reaction does occur between NaOH and HCl, resulting in the formation of NaCl and H2O. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Hydrogen gas and sodium chloride (NaCl).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another of different density. In deserts, the temperature gradient causes light to bend, creating the mirage effect where distant objects appear distorted or displaced. Diffraction refers to the bending of light around obstacles or apertures, not the cause of mirages. Interference involves the superposition of two or more waves, which is not the mechanism behind mirages. Polarization refers to the orientation of light waves in a specific plane and is not responsible for the mirage effect in deserts. Therefore, the correct answer is refraction.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Dense irregular connective tissue, found in tendons and ligaments, provides tensile strength. Tendons and ligaments need to withstand tension and forces acting upon them, and the dense irregular connective tissue helps provide this strength and support. Choice A, flexibility, is incorrect because tendons and ligaments primarily provide support and stability rather than flexibility. Choice B, lubrication, is not the main function of dense irregular connective tissue in tendons and ligaments. Choice C, insulation, is also incorrect as this tissue type is not primarily involved in providing insulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stapes (Middle ear bone). The stapes, located in the middle ear, is indeed the smallest bone in the human body. Despite its small size, the stapes is vital for hearing as it transmits and amplifies sound vibrations, contributing significantly to auditory perception. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. The patella (kneecap) is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body, not the smallest bone. Phalanges are the bones in fingers and toes, not the smallest bone overall. Ribs are long bones that protect the chest cavity, not the smallest bone in the body.