Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Option D describes an experiment because it involves testing the effects of a new drug on a group of participants. In an experiment, researchers intentionally manipulate an independent variable (in this case, the new drug) to observe its effects on a dependent variable (the participants' health outcomes). This method allows for establishing cause-and-effect relationships between variables, which is a key characteristic of experimental research design. Choices A, B, and C do not represent experiments. Choice A involves observational analysis of math grades, choice B involves observational analysis of health trends, and choice C involves a survey, none of which involve manipulating variables to establish cause-and-effect relationships.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct order of some of the vertebrae in the human skeleton in descending order is Atlas, Axis, Thoracic, Lumbar, Sacral, Coccyx. This sequence follows the typical arrangement from the top of the spine down towards the pelvis. Choice B is incorrect as it does not follow the descending order of vertebrae. Choice C is incorrect as it starts with Thoracic which is not the first vertebra in the descending order. Choice D is incorrect as it starts with Coccyx which is the last vertebra in the descending order.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The statement 'Digestion of starch begins in the mouth' is correct. Salivary amylase, an enzyme produced in the salivary glands, initiates the breakdown of starch into simpler sugars like maltose in the mouth before further digestion in the stomach. This initial breakdown of starch is crucial in the digestion of carbohydrates, marking the beginning of the digestive process. Choice B is incorrect because amylase is produced in the salivary glands, not the stomach. Choice C is incorrect because di- and tri-saccharides are further broken down into monosaccharides before absorption. Choice D is incorrect because proteases are enzymes that break down proteins, not starches.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The most logical reason for some of the plants dying with the salt solution could be that salt caused the plants to begin to dry up, leading to their death. Excessive salt can disrupt the osmotic balance within plants, causing dehydration and ultimately death. Salt can create a hypertonic environment, drawing water out of plant cells and causing wilting and damage. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the presence of salt could have dried out some of the plants and caused them to die. Choices B and C are incorrect as the scenario presented indicates that the salt had a negative impact on the plants, causing some to die. Choice D is also incorrect as there is a valid reason provided for the plants dying due to the salt solution.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the Tricuspid valve. This valve is located between the right atrium and the right ventricle in the heart. Its primary function is to facilitate the flow of blood from the right atrium into the right ventricle and to prevent the backflow of blood. The Pulmonic valve (choice B) is situated between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery, not between the right atrium and ventricle, making it incorrect. The Mitral valve (choice C) is found between the left atrium and the left ventricle, not the right side, so it is incorrect. The Aortic valve (choice D) is positioned between the left ventricle and the aorta, not involved in the right atrium and ventricle connection, hence it is also incorrect.