Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A) Desertification is the correct term for the gradual loss of topsoil due to wind or water erosion. It refers to the process by which fertile land becomes desert, usually due to factors like drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture practices. This process can lead to the degradation of land and contribute to the expansion of deserts. B) Leaching is the process in which minerals are washed out of the soil by water moving downwards through it. This is different from the loss of topsoil due to erosion. C) Salinization occurs when salt accumulates in the soil, typically as a result of irrigation in arid regions. While salinization affects soil quality, it is not specifically related to the gradual loss of topsoil due to erosion. D) Acidification refers to the decrease in soil pH, often caused by factors like acid rain or the use of acidic fertilizers. This process is distinct from the gradual loss of topsoil due to erosion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Mitosis is the correct process by which a cell divides into two genetically identical daughter cells. Meiosis involves two rounds of cell division resulting in four daughter cells with half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Fission refers to the division of a single-celled organism into two separate organisms, while binary fission specifically describes the division of prokaryotic cells. Therefore, the correct answer is Mitosis as it accurately represents the process of a cell dividing into two daughter cells.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Stapes (Middle ear bone). The stapes, located in the middle ear, is indeed the smallest bone in the human body. Despite its small size, the stapes is vital for hearing as it transmits and amplifies sound vibrations, contributing significantly to auditory perception. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. The patella (kneecap) is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body, not the smallest bone. Phalanges are the bones in fingers and toes, not the smallest bone overall. Ribs are long bones that protect the chest cavity, not the smallest bone in the body.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Melatonin is primarily known for its role in controlling sleep-wake cycles. It is produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness, helping signal the body that it is time to sleep. Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening and stay elevated throughout the night, promoting sleep. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as melatonin's primary function is not to regulate blood pressure, stimulate the digestive system, or maintain bone density. While melatonin may have some indirect effects on these functions, its main role lies in regulating the circadian rhythm and promoting a restful sleep cycle.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Muscle tissue serves multiple functions in the body, including the generation of body heat, joint stabilization, and maintenance of posture. These functions are essential for movement, stability, and overall bodily functions. The correct answer is 'All of the above' because muscle tissue plays a key role in each of these vital functions. The generation of body heat occurs through muscle activity, joint stabilization is achieved by muscles surrounding joints, and maintaining posture involves muscle contraction to support the body's position. Therefore, all the listed functions are interconnected and rely on the proper functioning of muscle tissue.