Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Complement system. The complement system is a vital component of the immune system responsible for destroying pathogens through various mechanisms like promoting inflammation, enhancing phagocytosis, and directly lysing pathogens. Fibrinogen is crucial for blood clotting, the major histocompatibility complex is involved in immune responses, and platelets aid in blood clotting and wound healing. However, none of these directly destroy pathogens as the complement system does.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Connective tissue is the correct answer as it provides support, structure, and strength to the body by holding tissues and organs in place. Muscle tissue is primarily responsible for movement, nervous tissue for communication, and epithelial tissue for covering and lining surfaces. While muscle tissue allows for voluntary and involuntary movement, nervous tissue transmits electrical signals, and epithelial tissue acts as a protective barrier and is involved in absorption and secretion. Therefore, in the context of providing support and structure, connective tissue is the most appropriate choice.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Indefinite shape and definite volume.' A gas does not have a definite shape as it takes the shape of its container, conforming to its surroundings. However, a gas does have a definite volume because it fills the entire volume of the container it occupies. This characteristic allows gases to expand to fill the available space provided by the container, while their volume remains constant within that container. Choice A is incorrect because gases do not have an indefinite volume but rather a definite volume. Choice C is incorrect as gases do not have a definite shape but take the shape of their container. Choice D is incorrect as gases do not have a definite shape and their volume is definite, not indefinite.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'As volume decreases, density increases.' This is because density is defined as mass divided by volume. When volume decreases and mass remains constant, the ratio of mass to volume increases, leading to higher density. Choice A is incorrect because as volume increases, density typically remains constant or increases due to the mass also increasing. Choice C is incorrect because an object's density is directly influenced by its mass. Choice D is incorrect as decreasing volume does not lead to an increase in mass.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Systolic pressure. In a blood pressure reading, the first number represents the systolic pressure, which is the maximum pressure in the arteries during heart contraction. The second number in the reading is the diastolic pressure, which indicates the pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure, and pulse rate are not the first numbers in a blood pressure reading.