What is the primary purpose of control rods within a nuclear reactor?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary purpose of control rods in a nuclear reactor is to absorb excess neutrons to control criticality. When inserted into the reactor core, control rods absorb neutrons, reducing the number available for sustaining the fission chain reaction. This action allows operators to manage the reactor power levels and prevent overheating or runaway reactions. Reflecting neutrons back into the core and moderating neutron velocity are not the primary functions of control rods in a nuclear reactor. Choice A is incorrect because control rods do not reflect neutrons back into the core but absorb them. Choice C is incorrect as the moderation of neutron velocity is typically achieved by other materials like a moderator (e.g., water, graphite) rather than control rods. Choice D is incorrect as control rods do not reflect neutrons or moderate neutron velocity, making it an incorrect option.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Pressure does not affect the rate of dissolution of a solute in a solvent. The factors that affect the rate of dissolution include temperature, surface area, and particle size. Temperature generally increases the rate of dissolution by providing more energy for the solute particles to break apart and mix with the solvent. Increasing the surface area of the solute by grinding it into smaller particles or increasing its contact area with the solvent can also speed up dissolution. Similarly, reducing the particle size of the solute can increase the rate of dissolution by providing more surface area for interaction with the solvent. Pressure, however, does not have a significant impact on the dissolution process and is not a factor that influences the rate at which a solute dissolves in a solvent.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids. These four types of macromolecules are essential for life as they serve crucial roles in various cellular processes. Carbohydrates are the primary energy source for cells and provide structural support. Lipids function as energy storage molecules and are essential components of cell membranes. Proteins have diverse functions in cellular processes, acting as enzymes, structural components, and more. Nucleic acids, like DNA and RNA, carry genetic information and are crucial for protein synthesis. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they include elements like fats, vitamins, minerals, and hormones, which are not the main types of macromolecules essential for life.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Endocytosis is the process by which cells engulf large molecules or particles by wrapping the cell membrane around them to form a vesicle that is brought into the cell. This mechanism facilitates the movement of large molecules like proteins and polysaccharides across the cell membrane. Exocytosis involves the release of large molecules or particles from the cell, opposite to the scenario described in the question. Active transport requires energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient and is not primarily used for transporting proteins and polysaccharides. Facilitated diffusion entails the movement of molecules aided by transport proteins but is not the primary mechanism for transporting large molecules such as proteins and polysaccharides.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A) Cellular respiration is the correct answer. It is the process by which cells convert glucose into ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell. This process involves a series of biochemical reactions that occur in the mitochondria of eukaryotic cells or the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells. Through cellular respiration, the energy stored in glucose molecules is gradually released and captured in the form of ATP. B) Fermentation is an anaerobic process that occurs in the absence of oxygen. It involves the partial breakdown of glucose to produce ATP and end products such as lactic acid or ethanol. While fermentation can generate ATP, it is less efficient than cellular respiration in terms of energy production. C) Photosynthesis is the process by which plants, algae, and some bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose. This process occurs in chloroplasts and is the opposite of cellular respiration. While photosynthesis produces glucose, it is not the process of converting glucose into ATP. D) Hydrolysis is a chemical process that uses water to break down molecules into smaller components. It is not specifically related to converting glucose into ATP.