Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of membranes within the cell that plays a crucial role in protein and lipid synthesis. It consists of two types: rough ER, which is studded with ribosomes and involved in protein synthesis, and smooth ER, which is involved in lipid synthesis and detoxification. The ER's main function is to synthesize proteins and lipids, not just package and transport them. While the ER is involved in transporting these synthesized proteins and lipids to other parts of the cell or outside the cell, its primary role is in their synthesis. Breaking down macromolecules is primarily the function of lysosomes, which are membrane-bound organelles containing enzymes for digestion. Storing genetic material is the function of the nucleus, which houses the cell's DNA. The ER is not involved in storing genetic material.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system mistakenly targets and attacks healthy body tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. This results in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and type 1 diabetes. Allergies, on the other hand, involve an exaggerated immune response to harmless substances like pollen or certain foods. Immunodeficiency refers to a weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Sepsis is a severe systemic response to an infection, leading to organ dysfunction and potentially life-threatening complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is systemic arteries. Systemic arteries carry oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body to provide oxygen and nutrients to tissues. Pulmonary arteries carry deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. Pulmonary veins transport oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the heart. Systemic veins return deoxygenated blood from the body tissues to the heart for reoxygenation. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not carry oxygenated blood away from the heart to the body.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: An increase in surface area typically increases the force of friction between two surfaces. This is because with a larger surface area in contact, there are more points of contact between the surfaces, leading to a greater frictional force resisting motion. As a result, the correct answer is that an increase in surface area increases the force of friction between two surfaces. Choice B is incorrect because a greater surface area increases the frictional force. Choice C is incorrect because an increase in surface area results in more contact points and greater friction. Choice D is incorrect as the relationship between surface area and friction is predictable - an increase in surface area generally leads to an increase in frictional force.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Taxonomy is the science of classifying organisms into different groups based on their evolutionary relationships. It involves identifying, naming, and categorizing living organisms according to their similarities and differences, helping us understand the diversity of life. Microbiology (option B) focuses on the study of microorganisms. Genetics (option C) deals with genes and heredity. Epidemiology (option D) explores the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in populations. Therefore, the correct answer is Taxonomy as it specifically pertains to the classification of organisms based on their evolutionary relationships.