Which hormone, produced by the pituitary gland, stimulates the growth and development of bones, muscles, and organs?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is Growth hormone (GH). GH, produced by the pituitary gland, is responsible for stimulating the growth and development of bones, muscles, and organs. It plays a critical role in regulating growth during childhood and adolescence by promoting cell division, protein synthesis, and tissue growth. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) functions to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, while prolactin is involved in milk production. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is primarily responsible for reproductive functions like egg development in females and sperm production in males.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary function of the epiglottis in the respiratory system is to prevent food from entering the trachea. During swallowing, the epiglottis covers the opening of the trachea, guiding food down the esophagus to the stomach and preventing it from entering the airway. This mechanism safeguards the respiratory system from foreign objects, ensuring proper air passage and avoiding potential choking hazards. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect: A) Filtration of air is mainly performed by the nasal hairs and the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. B) Production of mucus is primarily carried out by the mucous glands in the respiratory system to trap particles and humidify the air. D) Oxygen exchange in the alveoli occurs in the lungs and is related to the process of respiration, not the function of the epiglottis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nucleus is the organelle that contains the genetic material (DNA) of the cell. It acts as the control center of the cell, regulating gene expression and coordinating cellular activities. The cytoplasm is the fluid-filled space within the cell where organelles are suspended, but it does not contain the genetic material. The cell wall is a rigid structure found in plant cells that provides support and protection, but it does not house the DNA. The Golgi apparatus is involved in processing and packaging proteins for secretion, but it does not contain the genetic material of the cell.

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: D

Rationale: The creatinine clearance test is commonly used to assess kidney function. Creatinine, a waste product produced by muscles, is filtered out of the blood by the kidneys. The creatinine clearance test measures how efficiently the kidneys clear creatinine from the blood. Abnormal levels of creatinine in the blood can indicate kidney dysfunction, making this test crucial for evaluating kidney function. Choice A, a complete blood count (CBC), provides information about different blood cells and is not a specific test for kidney function. Choice B, a blood sugar test, assesses glucose levels in the blood and is not directly related to kidney function. Choice C, a urinalysis, evaluates the contents of urine and can provide information about kidney health but is not as specific for assessing kidney function as the creatinine clearance test.