Which hormone is responsible for the characteristic changes experienced during puberty, such as breast development and menstruation in females?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Estrogen is the hormone responsible for the characteristic changes experienced during puberty in females, such as breast development and menstruation. Estrogen plays a crucial role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are primarily involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Progesterone, on the other hand, is important for preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining pregnancy, but it is not the primary hormone responsible for the changes seen during puberty in females.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Aerobic respiration is the process by which cells use oxygen to convert glucose into energy. This process occurs in the mitochondria of cells and is the most efficient way to produce energy during exercise. Anaerobic respiration and glycolysis are alternative pathways for energy production when oxygen is limited, typically occurring during high-intensity exercise. Lactic acid fermentation, on the other hand, occurs in the absence of oxygen and leads to the production of lactic acid, causing muscle fatigue and soreness.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is associated with regulating mood, sleep, and memory. It plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional balance and is often a target in treating mood disorders like depression and anxiety. Serotonin also helps regulate sleep patterns and is connected to memory function. Dopamine (choice A) is more commonly linked to reward, motivation, and movement. Acetylcholine (choice C) is involved in muscle control and memory. Glutamate (choice D) is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the brain but is not primarily associated with mood, sleep, and memory.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Oligodendrocytes are a type of glial cell that provides structural support and insulation for neurons in the central nervous system by forming myelin sheaths around axons. Schwann cells (option A) perform a similar function but in the peripheral nervous system. Astrocytes (option B) are involved in providing nutrients to neurons, maintaining the chemical environment, and repairing damage. Microglia (option D) are primarily responsible for immune defense in the central nervous system, not for providing structural support and insulation for neurons.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is responsible for regulating metabolism, growth, and development. It produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) that play a crucial role in these functions. The parathyroid gland regulates calcium levels, the pituitary gland controls various hormonal functions, and the thymus gland is involved in immune system development. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they have different functions compared to the thyroid gland.