Correct Answer: C

Rationale: mRNA (messenger RNA) is directly transcribed from DNA in the nucleus during the process of transcription. It serves as a template for protein synthesis during translation in the cytoplasm. mRNA carries genetic information from the DNA to the ribosomes, where it determines the sequence of amino acids in a protein. Thus, mRNA represents the first step in protein synthesis as it carries the code from the DNA to be translated into a protein. Choice A, siRNA (small interfering RNA), is involved in post-transcriptional gene silencing and does not play a role in protein synthesis. Choice B, rRNA (ribosomal RNA), is a component of the ribosome and plays a structural and functional role in protein synthesis but is not directly transcribed from DNA. Choice D, tRNA (transfer RNA), is responsible for bringing amino acids to the ribosome during protein synthesis but is not directly transcribed from DNA.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct flow of blood through the heart starts with the right atrium receiving deoxygenated blood from the body, followed by the right ventricle pumping blood to the lungs for oxygenation. Oxygenated blood then returns to the heart through the left atrium, then passes to the left ventricle which pumps it out to the body through the aorta. This flow ensures that blood is properly oxygenated before circulating through the body. Choice A is incorrect as the blood does not go directly from the left atrium to the body, skipping the left ventricle. Choice B is incorrect as it does not follow the correct flow sequence in the heart. Choice D is incorrect as it does not include the full pathway of blood through the heart.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. During expiration, the diaphragm relaxes, causing the thoracic cavity to contract. As the thoracic cavity decreases in size, the pressure inside the lungs increases, leading to air flowing out of the lungs. This process helps to expel carbon dioxide-rich air from the body. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. In choice A, the diaphragm contracting and the thoracic cavity expanding describes inspiration, not expiration. Choice C is incorrect because during expiration, the thoracic cavity actually decreases in size. Choice D is incorrect as the diaphragm moving upward is not a typical movement associated with expiration.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Human cells typically contain genes that code for proteins necessary for the cell's functions. DNA that codes for proteins the cell doesn't use would be an inefficient use of the cell's resources. Therefore, it is less likely to be found in a human cell's genes. Options A, B, and C are more commonly associated with genes found in human cells. Choice A refers to the genetic information needed for protein synthesis, while choice B involves traits that can be present in the gene pool. Mutated DNA (choice C) can also be found in human cells as a result of genetic alterations. However, DNA that codes for proteins not utilized by the cell would be redundant and not typically retained in the genome.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Progesterone, produced in the ovaries, stimulates uterine lining growth and plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. Insulin is produced in the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels, not in the ovaries. Adrenaline is produced by the adrenal glands and increases heart rate in response to stress or danger, not in the ovaries. Cortisol, also produced by the adrenal glands, helps regulate the body's response to stress, not in the ovaries.