What is the primary function of the mucous membrane lining the muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the mucous membrane lining the muscular tube connecting the mouth to the stomach is to provide lubrication and protection. This mucous membrane serves to protect the esophageal lining from damage caused by the passage of food and liquids. It also aids in facilitating the smooth passage of food from the mouth to the stomach by lubricating it, ensuring easier movement. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as the mucous membrane does not secrete digestive enzymes, absorb nutrients, or store bile. Its main role is primarily related to lubricating and protecting the lining of the tube.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Seminal vesicles. Seminal vesicles are responsible for producing a significant portion of the fluid that makes up semen, providing nutrients and protection for the sperm. While the testes produce sperm, the scrotum is the external sac that holds the testes, and the prostate gland also contributes to semen production but is not solely responsible for it.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Autoimmune diseases result from a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms, leading to the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy body tissues. While deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals or exposure to environmental toxins can impact overall health, they are not direct causes of autoimmune diseases. Deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals may weaken the immune system, making it more susceptible to various health issues but does not directly cause autoimmune diseases. Exposure to environmental toxins can trigger immune responses, but autoimmune diseases specifically stem from the breakdown of self-tolerance mechanisms within immune cells. Therefore, the correct answer is a breakdown in immune cell self-tolerance mechanisms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A) Autoclave: An autoclave is a method of sterilization that uses high pressure and steam to kill microorganisms, making it an effective way to sterilize equipment and materials.\nB) UV light: UV light is a method of sterilization that damages the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing infections.\nC) Chemical disinfectants: Chemical disinfectants are used to kill or inactivate microorganisms on surfaces, but they may not always achieve sterilization, which is the complete destruction of all microorganisms.\nD) Boiling water: Boiling water is a method of disinfection rather than sterilization. While boiling water can kill many microorganisms, it may not be effective against all types of bacteria, viruses, and spores, making it unsuitable for achieving sterilization.\n\nTherefore, the correct answer is D) Boiling water, as it is not a method of sterilization.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Influenza is an example of a zoonotic disease as it can be transmitted from animals such as birds and pigs to humans. The common cold (option A) is caused by human rhinoviruses and is not considered a zoonotic disease. Malaria (option C) is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes and is not considered a zoonotic disease. HIV/AIDS (option D) is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus and is not considered a zoonotic disease.