What mineral is essential for muscle function and can cause cramps if deficient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Potassium is essential for muscle function, including muscle contraction. A deficiency in potassium can lead to muscle weakness and cramps. While sodium, calcium, and magnesium are also important minerals for muscle function, potassium is specifically known for its role in preventing muscle cramps by regulating muscle contractions and nerve signals.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Ventral carries motor, dorsal carries sensory information. In the spinal nerve, the ventral root carries motor information from the spinal cord to the muscles, while the dorsal root carries sensory information from the peripheral sensory receptors to the spinal cord. Therefore, other choices are incorrect. Choice B is incorrect as it states the opposite roles of ventral and dorsal roots. Choice C is incorrect as the size comparison between ventral and dorsal roots is not related to their functions. Choice D is incorrect as the terms 'anteriorly' and 'posteriorly' are not commonly used to describe the locations of ventral and dorsal roots in relation to each other.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Negative feedback mechanisms in the endocrine system play a vital role in maintaining hormone levels within a specific range. When hormone levels deviate from the set point, negative feedback signals prompt adjustments in hormone production to bring the levels back to the optimal range. This process ensures a delicate balance of hormones in the body, preventing excesses or deficiencies. Choice A is incorrect because continuously increasing hormone production would lead to imbalances. Choice C is incorrect as a constant release of hormones without regulation would disrupt homeostasis. Choice D is incorrect because disrupting communication between glands would hinder proper coordination and regulation of hormone levels, which is essential for the body's overall function.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the endocrine system, negative feedback is the mechanism by which hormone levels are regulated. When hormone levels reach a certain threshold, they signal the body to stop producing more of that hormone, thus maintaining a balance. Negative feedback (option B) is the correct answer as it helps in preventing overproduction of hormones by suppressing their own release. Positive feedback (option A) would lead to an excessive production of hormones, disrupting the balance. The cascade effect (option C) involves one hormone triggering the release of another but does not directly regulate hormone levels. The dual hormone system (option D) refers to two hormones working together but does not specifically address the feedback mechanism for maintaining hormone balance.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The pericardium is a double-walled sac that surrounds the heart and contains a small amount of fluid to provide lubrication for the movement of the heart within the chest cavity. It helps reduce friction as the heart beats and moves. Choice A is incorrect because the generation of electrical impulses for heart contraction is primarily the function of the heart's specialized conduction system. Choice B is incorrect as the pericardium is not involved in the transportation of blood throughout the body. Choice D is also incorrect as while the pericardium does protect the heart, its primary function is to provide lubrication and reduce friction.