Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Sodium bicarbonate, when released into the lumen of the small intestine, functions to increase the pH of the acidic chyme coming from the stomach. This increase in pH helps neutralize the acidity of the chyme, creating a more optimal environment for the digestive enzymes in the small intestine to function properly. Maintaining a slightly basic pH in the small intestine is crucial for overall digestion and absorption of nutrients. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Sodium bicarbonate does not chemically digest fats or proteins in the chyme, and it does not decrease the pH of the chyme as it actually increases the pH to prevent harm to the intestine.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Sperm production occurs in the seminiferous tubules within the testes. These tubules are responsible for spermatogenesis, the process of sperm creation. The prostate gland and seminal vesicles contribute to seminal fluid production, while the scrotum houses the testes but does not produce sperm. Therefore, choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are not sites for sperm production.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Neon is the least reactive among the given elements because it belongs to the noble gases group in the periodic table. Noble gases have a full valence shell of electrons, making them highly stable and least likely to react with other elements. Fluorine is the most reactive non-metal due to its high electronegativity. Silicon is a metalloid with moderate reactivity, falling between metals and nonmetals. Gallium is a metal with higher reactivity compared to Neon, but it is not as reactive as Fluorine.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Reflex arc.' A reflex arc is the neural pathway that triggers an automatic, involuntary reflex action in response to a stimulus. It involves sensory neurons, interneurons in the spinal cord, and motor neurons, allowing for a rapid response without conscious thought. Choice A, 'Reflex loop,' is incorrect as the term commonly used is 'Reflex arc' to describe this neural pathway. Choice C, 'Neural pathway,' is too general and does not specifically refer to the pathway involved in reflex actions. Choice D, 'Reflex reaction,' is not the commonly accepted term to describe the neural pathway that triggers reflex actions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Water is highly cohesive, meaning it is attracted to itself due to its hydrogen bonding properties. This cohesion is the reason why water has a high melting point compared to other liquids of similar molecular weight. It is crucial for the existence of life on Earth as it allows water to remain a liquid within a wide range of temperatures, providing a stable environment for biological processes to occur. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Water's cohesive property does not directly relate to its ability to flow through phospholipid bilayers, assist fish in breathing, or self-hydrolyze into hydrogen and oxygen.