Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In CH4 (methane), carbon is bonded to four hydrogen atoms. Hydrogen has an oxidation state of +1. Since the overall charge of CH4 is 0, the oxidation state of carbon must be -4 to balance the charges. Each hydrogen contributes an oxidation state of +1, resulting in a total of +4 from hydrogen atoms. To achieve a total oxidation state of 0 for the molecule, carbon must have an oxidation state of -4 to offset the contribution from hydrogen. Therefore, the correct answer is -4. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: +1 is the oxidation state of hydrogen, -1 is not the oxidation state of carbon in methane, and +2 is not the correct oxidation state of carbon in CH4.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Passive transport refers to the movement of molecules across a cell membrane without the input of energy. Diffusion of small molecules across a concentration gradient is a classic example of passive transport, as it occurs spontaneously from an area of high concentration to an area of low concentration. Active transport (option A) requires energy input in the form of ATP to move substances against their concentration gradient. Movement of large molecules using vesicles (option C) involves processes like endocytosis and exocytosis that require energy in the form of ATP. Endocytosis of particles into the cell (option D) is an active process that requires energy expenditure by the cell to engulf and internalize extracellular substances.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Ciliary action refers to the process where tiny hair-like structures called cilia in the respiratory tract help to sweep away inhaled dust and allergens, preventing them from entering deeper into the lungs. This is a crucial part of the body's natural defense mechanism against respiratory irritants. Cellular respiration (A) is the process where cells use oxygen to produce energy, not a defense mechanism against inhaled particles. Gas exchange (B) involves the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the lungs, not specifically targeting inhaled dust and allergens. Bronchoconstriction (D) is the narrowing of the airways in response to irritants or allergens, which can lead to breathing difficulties, but it is not the primary defense mechanism against these particles.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the airways in the lungs, leading to symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. Pneumonia is an infection in the lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, leading to symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Emphysema is a type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) characterized by damage to the air sacs in the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath and a chronic cough. Pleurisy, on the other hand, is inflammation of the lining around the lungs, causing chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing. Therefore, the correct term for the inflammation of the airways in the lungs with symptoms of wheezing and difficulty breathing is Asthma.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: - Respiration (Option A) is the process by which cells break down glucose to release energy. - Fermentation (Option B) is an anaerobic process that also involves the breakdown of glucose to release energy. - Hydrolysis (Option D) is a chemical process that involves the breakdown of molecules by adding water. Photosynthesis (Option C) is the process by which green plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. During photosynthesis, plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen. This process is essential for the survival of plants and ultimately sustains life on Earth by providing oxygen for other organisms to breathe and serving as a source of energy in the food chain.