Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Bile is produced by the liver to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. The liver produces bile, which is then stored and concentrated in the gallbladder before being released into the small intestine to facilitate fat digestion. The stomach (option A) is responsible for the initial digestion of food through gastric juices but does not produce bile. The pancreas (option B) secretes digestive enzymes like lipase to further break down fats in the small intestine but does not produce bile. The gallbladder (option D) stores and concentrates bile but does not produce it.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The mass number of an element represents the total number of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. It specifically focuses on the number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus, which contributes to the overall mass of the atom. Therefore, the mass number is not solely determined by the number of protons, electrons, or isotopes. Choice A is incorrect because it refers to the atomic number, which is the number of protons in an atom's nucleus. Choice C is incorrect as the number of electrons in the valence shell is related to the atom's reactivity and bonding behavior, not the mass number. Choice D is incorrect because the mass number does not represent the number of isotopes of an element, but rather the sum of protons and neutrons in an atom's nucleus. Thus, option B, the number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus, is the correct choice.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The reticular formation is a network of neurons located in the brainstem that plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles, coordinating various sensory inputs, and maintaining wakefulness. It acts as a filter for incoming sensory information and helps in directing attention to important stimuli. The other options, the cerebrum, hypothalamus, and medulla oblongata, are important structures in the brain but are not primarily responsible for the specific functions mentioned in the question. The cerebrum is mainly involved in higher brain functions such as thinking and voluntary movements. The hypothalamus is responsible for regulating body temperature, hunger, and thirst, among other functions. The medulla oblongata is essential for controlling vital autonomic functions like breathing and heart rate.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Antibodies are produced by a specific type of lymphocyte known as B cells. B cells are a critical component of the adaptive immune system and are responsible for producing antibodies in response to pathogens. Neutrophils, monocytes, and basophils are types of white blood cells that are part of the innate immune response and do not have the function of producing antibodies. Neutrophils are primarily involved in phagocytosis, monocytes differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells for antigen presentation, while basophils are involved in allergic reactions and parasitic infections.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The pH of a solution can be calculated using the formula: pH = -log[H+]. Given that the hydrogen ion concentration is \(1 \times 10^{-9}\) M, the pH can be calculated as pH = -log(1 x 10^-9) = 9. Therefore, the correct answer is C) 9.