Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Chromium is the correct answer. Chromium is the element used in insulin that aids in its function by enhancing glucose uptake into cells and regulating blood sugar levels. It plays a crucial role in the body's energy production processes by facilitating the action of insulin. Zinc (Choice A), although important for various physiological functions, is not the element used in insulin. Manganese (Choice C) is necessary for enzyme activation but is not directly involved in insulin's function. Iron (Choice D) is essential for oxygen transport but is not the element used in insulin for promoting glucose uptake into cells.

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Decreased heart rate and body temperature. A malfunctioning thyroid gland that produces abnormally low levels of thyroid hormones leads to hypothyroidism, resulting in decreased metabolic activity. This reduction in metabolic rate can cause a decreased heart rate and lower body temperature. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hypothyroidism typically manifests as symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, bradycardia, and decreased body temperature, rather than increased energy levels, enhanced muscle growth, faster metabolism, or heightened alertness.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is Calcium (Choice C). Calcium is essential for bone health and is stored in bones by the skeletal system. Bones act as a reservoir for calcium, playing a critical role in maintaining bone strength and density. Iron, sodium, and magnesium are important for various bodily functions but are not primarily stored in bones for bone health. Iron is crucial for oxygen transport, sodium helps regulate fluid balance, and magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A) Autoclave: An autoclave is a method of sterilization that uses high pressure and steam to kill microorganisms, making it an effective way to sterilize equipment and materials.\nB) UV light: UV light is a method of sterilization that damages the DNA of microorganisms, preventing them from reproducing and causing infections.\nC) Chemical disinfectants: Chemical disinfectants are used to kill or inactivate microorganisms on surfaces, but they may not always achieve sterilization, which is the complete destruction of all microorganisms.\nD) Boiling water: Boiling water is a method of disinfection rather than sterilization. While boiling water can kill many microorganisms, it may not be effective against all types of bacteria, viruses, and spores, making it unsuitable for achieving sterilization.\n\nTherefore, the correct answer is D) Boiling water, as it is not a method of sterilization.