Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A herniated lumbar disc is most likely to cause pain along the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve is a long nerve that extends from the lower back down the back of each leg. Compression of the sciatic nerve by a herniated disc can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the leg. This condition is commonly referred to as sciatica. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because a herniated lumbar disc typically affects the sciatic nerve, not the radial nerve, spinal cord, or tibial nerve.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Iodine is the mineral that supports the function of the thyroid. The thyroid gland requires iodine to produce thyroid hormones, which are essential for regulating metabolism and other important bodily functions. A deficiency in iodine can lead to thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or goiter. Manganese (Choice A), Phosphorus (Choice C), and Zinc (Choice D) do not play a direct role in supporting the thyroid function like iodine does. While these minerals are important for various bodily functions, they are not specifically required for the thyroid gland's hormone production.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The term 'lateral' refers to the direction away from the midline of the body. In this case, the cheekbones are situated to the sides of the nose, making them lateral to the nose. Therefore, 'lateral' correctly describes the position of the cheekbones in relation to the nose. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect: A. 'Anterior' means situated at or towards the front, which is not the correct description of the cheekbones in relation to the nose. B. 'Proximal' means situated nearer to the center of the body, which is not the correct description of the cheekbones' position in relation to the nose. C. 'Deep' refers to being situated further away from the surface, which is not the appropriate term to describe the cheekbones' position in relation to the nose.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The esophagus is part of the digestive system. It is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach, allowing the passage of food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach for digestion. The esophagus plays a crucial role in the process of swallowing and digestion, which are essential functions of the digestive system. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the esophagus is not associated with the endocrine, respiratory, or nervous systems.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Pepsin is an enzyme produced in the stomach that is essential for breaking down proteins during digestion. It functions by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller peptides, which are further broken down into amino acids for absorption in the intestines. Therefore, option A, 'To break down proteins,' is the correct answer. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not align with the specific function of pepsin in the body.