Where does sperm maturation take place in the male reproductive system?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Sperm maturation occurs in the epididymis, a coiled tube located on the back of each testicle. In the epididymis, sperm gain motility and the ability to fertilize an egg. It serves as a storage site for mature sperm until ejaculation. The seminal vesicles and the prostate gland contribute fluids to semen, enhancing sperm viability and motility. The vas deferens is responsible for transporting mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation, but it is not where sperm maturation takes place. Therefore, the correct answer is the epididymis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Synergists play multiple roles in muscle function. They assist primary movers in completing specific movements by working together with them. Additionally, synergists help stabilize the point of origin and provide extra pull near the insertion, contributing to the efficiency of movement. Furthermore, they also help prevent unwanted movement at a joint by ensuring that the intended motion is executed smoothly. Therefore, all the statements in the answer choices accurately describe the functions of synergists, making 'All of the above' the most comprehensive and precise description of their role.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Bone is resistant to shattering due to the intricate balance of minerals and collagen fibers. The minerals provide strength to the bone, while the collagen fibers offer flexibility. This combination ensures that bone is a robust and resilient tissue. Choice A (The calcium salts deposited in the bone) is incorrect as calcium salts alone do not provide the necessary flexibility for bone to withstand shattering. Choice B (The collagen fibers) is partially correct as collagen fibers contribute to the flexibility of bone but alone are not sufficient for resistance to shattering. Choice C (The bone marrow and network of blood vessels) is incorrect as they do not directly contribute to the physical resistance of bone to shattering.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Organisms maintain homeostasis by utilizing free energy and matter through biochemical processes to counteract entropy, which helps in preserving internal stability. This process involves maintaining a balance within the organism's internal environment despite external changes, ensuring proper functioning and survival. Choice A is incorrect because increasing body temperature, blood pH, and fluid balance alone do not define the comprehensive process of maintaining homeostasis. Choice B is incorrect as absorbing energy to increase entropy goes against the concept of maintaining internal stability. Choice C is incorrect as maintaining the order of the external environment does not directly contribute to the organism's internal stability and balance.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Contractile, excitable, elastic, extensible.' All types of muscle tissue share these four properties. Muscle tissue can contract, respond to stimuli, stretch and return to its original shape (elastic), and extend or stretch (extensible). Choice B is incorrect because not all muscle tissues are voluntary (some are involuntary). Choice C is incorrect because not all muscle tissues are voluntary. Choice D is incorrect because not all muscle tissues are voluntary and lack the elastic property.