What is the primary function of platelets in the blood?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: To clot blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, have a primary function in blood clotting. They help in the process of coagulation, forming clots to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. Platelets play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the circulatory system by sealing off damaged blood vessels and promoting wound healing. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because platelets do not carry oxygen, fight infections, or transport nutrients in the blood.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To transport oxygen.' Hemoglobin in red blood cells plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen. It binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to the body's tissues and organs for cellular respiration. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hemoglobin's primary function is to bind and transport oxygen, not to fight infections, carry carbon dioxide, or store oxygen.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ribosome. Ribosomes, the cellular structures located in the cytoplasm or on the endoplasmic reticulum, are responsible for protein synthesis in the cell. They are the sites where mRNA is translated into proteins, making them essential for the synthesis of proteins in all living cells. The other choices, such as the nucleus (choice A), endoplasmic reticulum (choice C), and Golgi apparatus (choice D), are not directly involved in protein synthesis. The nucleus contains DNA and is responsible for housing the genetic material, the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein folding and transport, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Producing enzymes. The liver is involved in metabolism by producing enzymes that are essential for regulating various metabolic processes in the body. While the liver does store glucose, secrete bile, and detoxify harmful substances, its primary role in metabolism is producing enzymes that facilitate biochemical reactions necessary for energy production, nutrient breakdown, and waste elimination. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because although the liver performs these functions, they are not directly related to its primary role in metabolism, which is producing enzymes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The semicircular canals in the inner ear are responsible for maintaining balance by detecting changes in head position and movement. These structures contain fluid and hair cells that send signals to the brain regarding the body's orientation in space, helping us stay balanced and navigate our surroundings. The cochlea is responsible for hearing, the ossicles are involved in sound transmission, and the Eustachian tube helps equalize pressure in the middle ear, but they are not directly related to balance.