What is the process by which cells respond to external stimuli, such as chemicals, temperature, or touch, called?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Signal transduction is the correct answer. It is the process by which cells respond to external stimuli like chemicals, temperature, or touch. When a cell receives a signal from its environment, it triggers a series of molecular events leading to a specific cellular response. This process involves transmitting signals from the cell surface to the interior, triggering various cellular activities. Homeostasis, on the other hand, refers to an organism's ability to maintain internal stability in response to external changes. Adaptation involves an organism adjusting to its environment over time through genetic changes or behavioral modifications, which is distinct from the process of cells responding to immediate external stimuli. Metabolism, although essential for cellular functions, is not specifically about cells responding to external stimuli but rather the biochemical processes involved in energy production, storage, and utilization within cells.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Stretch marks occur when the dermis layer tears due to rapid stretching of the skin. This tearing leads to the appearance of stretch marks, which are often red or purple at first and then fade to a silvery-white color over time. Inflammation of the dermis or clogging of sebaceous glands are not directly related to the formation of stretch marks. Therefore, choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not describe the actual cause of stretch marks.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Laser light differs from typical light sources due to its monochromatic nature (single color) and coherence (synchronized waves). This means that laser light consists of a single wavelength and synchronized waves, unlike typical light sources that emit a range of wavelengths and are incoherent. The monochromatic nature of laser light allows it to be of a single color, while coherence ensures that the waves are synchronized. These unique properties of laser light make it valuable for a wide range of applications in fields such as medicine, industry, and research. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because laser light's distinguishing features are not related to enhanced brightness, increased velocity, or limited visibility to the human eye. Instead, it is the monochromatic nature and coherence that set laser light apart from typical light sources.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Cardiac muscle is the type of muscle tissue found in the heart. Unlike skeletal muscle and smooth muscle, cardiac muscle is striated and involuntary, meaning it contracts without conscious control. It forms the majority of the heart's structure and is essential for its rhythmic contraction to pump blood throughout the body. Skeletal muscle is attached to bones and responsible for voluntary movements, while smooth muscle is found in organs and blood vessels, controlling various involuntary functions like digestion and blood flow. Therefore, choices A (Skeletal muscle) and B (Smooth muscle) are incorrect as they are not the types of muscle tissue found in the heart.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A) Introns do not code for protein sequences. Exons are the segments of DNA that code for proteins. B) While introns can indirectly influence gene regulation, their primary function is not directly involved in gene regulation. C) Introns are non-coding regions of DNA that are transcribed into pre-mRNA but are removed during mRNA processing through a process called splicing. This allows only the exons to be included in the mature mRNA that will be translated into proteins. D) While introns were once thought to be non-functional remnants of ancient DNA, research has shown that they can have regulatory functions and play a role in gene expression.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid acts as a shock absorber, protecting the brain from impact and providing nutrients to brain cells. Meninges are the three protective layers of tissue that surround the brain and spinal cord. Dura mater and arachnoid mater are specific layers of the meninges, not the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the brain.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The balanced chemical equation indicates that 2 moles of sodium react with 2 moles of water to yield 2 moles of sodium hydroxide and 1 mole of hydrogen gas. When 3 moles of sodium react with only 2 moles of water, sodium becomes the limiting reactant as it is present in excess compared to the available water molecules. This situation arises because not all sodium atoms can fully react with the limited amount of water, resulting in sodium being the limiting reactant in this specific case. Choice B (H2O), choice C (NaOH), and choice D (H2) are incorrect as they are not the limiting reactant in the given reaction scenario.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The T wave on an ECG corresponds to ventricular repolarization. Following ventricular depolarization, which is represented by the QRS complex, the ventricles undergo repolarization during the T wave. This phase signifies the recovery of ventricular muscle cells as they prepare for the subsequent depolarization cycle. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because the T wave specifically reflects the repolarization of the ventricles, not the atria or their respective depolarization or repolarization phases.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The scrotum is the structure that surrounds and protects the testes. It plays a vital role in maintaining an optimal temperature for sperm production by adjusting the distance of the testes from the body to regulate the effects of external temperature changes. This mechanism helps to safeguard the viability and quality of sperm by ensuring they develop at the right temperature. The epididymis (Choice A) is a coiled tube where sperm mature and are stored, not the structure surrounding the testes. The vas deferens (Choice B) is a duct that carries sperm from the testes to the urethra, not the protective structure around the testes. The prostate gland (Choice D) is part of the male reproductive system, responsible for secreting fluids that nourish and protect sperm, but it is not the structure that surrounds and protects the testes for sperm production.