What is the primary source of energy entering most ecosystems?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In most ecosystems, the primary source of energy is sunlight. This energy is captured by plants and other photosynthetic organisms through the process of photosynthesis. These organisms convert light energy into chemical energy stored in the bonds of organic molecules, such as glucose. This stored chemical energy is then passed on to other organisms in the ecosystem through the food chain, making sunlight the fundamental source of energy for most ecosystems. Thermal energy from the Earth's core (option B) is not a primary source of energy for ecosystems, as it is not readily accessible to most organisms. Kinetic energy from wind and water (option D) can play a role in some ecosystems, but it is not the primary source of energy. Chemical energy stored in bonds (option A) is a form of energy that is ultimately derived from the sun through photosynthesis, making it a product of the primary energy source rather than the primary source itself.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When sodium hydroxide (NaOH) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), a neutralization reaction occurs. The products of this reaction are water (H2O) and a salt, which is sodium chloride (NaCl). The chemical equation for this reaction is: NaOH + HCl -> NaCl + H2O. Choice B is incorrect because chlorine gas and sodium oxide are not the products of this reaction. Choice C is incorrect as sodium metal and water are not the products formed in this neutralization reaction. Choice D is incorrect because a reaction does occur between NaOH and HCl, resulting in the formation of NaCl and H2O. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Hydrogen gas and sodium chloride (NaCl).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pericardium is a double-layered sac that surrounds and protects the heart. Its main functions include preventing overfilling of the heart, providing a physical barrier against infection and inflammation, and reducing friction between the heart and surrounding structures. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately describe the function of the pericardium. Option B is the correct answer as it aligns with the protective and supportive role of the pericardium, distinguishing it from the functions attributed to choices A, C, and D.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the process of osmosis, solvent molecules move from an area of high solute concentration to low solute concentration. This movement occurs to equalize the solute concentrations on both sides of the semi-permeable membrane. As water tends to move towards higher solute concentrations, the solvent moves in this direction to balance the concentrations and establish equilibrium. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because osmosis involves the movement of solvent, not solute, and it moves towards the area of higher solute concentration, not lower. Therefore, the correct answer is option D.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Option B demonstrates a single displacement reaction where zinc (Zn) displaces hydrogen (H) in hydrochloric acid (HCl) to produce zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and hydrogen gas (H2). This reaction exemplifies the concept of one element (Zn) replacing another element (H) in a compound (HCl), which is characteristic of single displacement reactions. Choices A, C, and D do not involve a single element displacing another in a compound, making them incorrect. In choice A, hydrogen and oxygen combine to form water, which is not a single displacement reaction. In choice C, calcium carbonate decomposes into calcium oxide and carbon dioxide, not involving displacement of elements. In choice D, methane reacts with oxygen to form carbon dioxide and water, which is a combustion reaction, not a single displacement reaction.