Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The outermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, is composed of stratified squamous epithelial tissue. This type of tissue is well-suited for protection against mechanical stress and dehydration, making it ideal for the skin's barrier function. Simple cuboidal (Choice A) epithelial tissue is found in areas where secretion and absorption occur, such as kidney tubules. Simple columnar (Choice C) epithelial tissue lines the digestive tract, providing a large surface area for absorption. Stratified columnar (Choice D) epithelial tissue is less common and is found in limited regions like parts of the male urethra and ducts of some glands, but not in the outermost layer of the skin.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A) Transformation: Transformation is the process by which bacteria can take up free DNA from their environment and incorporate it into their own genome, leading to the acquisition of new genetic material and traits. B) Transduction: Transduction involves the transfer of genetic material from one bacterium to another by a bacteriophage, a virus that infects bacteria. The bacteriophage carries bacterial DNA from one host cell to another, facilitating the transfer of genetic material. C) Conjugation: Conjugation is a mechanism of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria where genetic material is transferred between two bacterial cells in direct contact. This transfer is facilitated by a conjugative plasmid carrying the genetic information. Therefore, all the processes mentioned (transformation, transduction, and conjugation) are ways in which bacteria can acquire new genetic material from their environment.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Pepsin. Pepsin is primarily responsible for breaking down proteins in the stomach. It is produced in an inactive form called pepsinogen, which becomes activated by the acidic environment in the stomach. Pepsin functions by breaking down proteins into smaller peptides, which are further digested by other enzymes in the small intestine. Lipase is responsible for breaking down fats, amylase for carbohydrates, and maltase for converting maltose into glucose. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are associated with breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and converting maltose, respectively, not proteins.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Gluon. Gluons are the particles responsible for mediating the strong nuclear force between protons and neutrons. They are the carriers of this force. Choice A, Electron, is incorrect as electrons are negatively charged. Choice B, Photon, is incorrect as photons are chargeless particles of light. Choice D, Neutrino, is incorrect as neutrinos are neutral particles with minimal mass and weak interactions with matter, not involved in mediating the strong nuclear force between protons and neutrons.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Beta waves, associated with alertness and focused attention, typically fall within the range of 13-30 Hz. These waves are present when individuals are engaged in cognitive tasks, problem-solving, or focused mental activities. Options A, B, and C are incorrect because these frequency ranges are not characteristic of beta waves. Beta waves are higher in frequency and are associated with more active mental states compared to the ranges mentioned in options A, B, and C. Therefore, the correct answer is 13-30 Hz (Choice D).