Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. The primary function of the endocrine system is to maintain homeostasis. Homeostasis refers to the stable internal conditions of the body, including body temperature, blood pH, and glucose levels. The endocrine system achieves this by releasing hormones that regulate various physiological processes and help keep the body's internal environment in balance. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because while the endocrine system does influence heart rate, electrolyte and water balance, and respiration to some extent, its primary role is to regulate homeostasis by releasing hormones.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Medical advances, higher standards of cleanliness, and the creation of vaccines have all significantly contributed to the increase in life expectancy over time. While human evolution plays a role in adaptation to the environment over millennia, it is not a primary factor that has led to the substantial increase in life expectancy within a few centuries. The human body's evolution is a slow process that occurs over generations, while the advancements in medical technology, cleanliness, and vaccines have had a more immediate and direct impact on improving life expectancy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. If an organism is AB, it indicates that it carries two different alleles. During gamete formation, each gamete receives only one allele from the pair present in the organism. Therefore, in this case, the possible gametes would be 'A' and 'B,' making 'AA' impossible. Choice A, 'AB,' is possible as each gamete can carry one of the alleles from the genotype. Similarly, 'BB' is also possible if one of the alleles separates into a gamete. Choice D, 'AB,' is essentially the same genotype as the organism and is a possible combination in the gametes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When human cells divide by meiosis, the resulting cells contain 23 chromosomes. This is because meiosis is a cell division process that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in cells with a haploid number of chromosomes. In humans, the diploid number of chromosomes is 46. Therefore, after meiosis, the resulting cells have 23 chromosomes, ensuring the correct chromosome number is restored upon fertilization. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not represent the correct chromosome number resulting from meiosis in human cells.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: All options are valid explanations for the decrease in maternal mortality during childbirth in modern times. Improved medical knowledge and technology have enabled doctors to perform cesarean sections more effectively, monitor mothers more closely for early detection of complications, and maintain better hygiene practices to reduce the risk of infections. Therefore, all the given statements collectively contribute to the reduction in maternal mortality rates in the 21st century.