Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A) Mutations in genes can introduce new genetic variations into a population, which can be acted upon by natural selection. B) Differential survival and reproduction based on traits is a key component of natural selection, as individuals with advantageous traits are more likely to survive and pass on their genes to the next generation. C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics, also known as Lamarckism, is not a mechanism of evolution by natural selection. Traits acquired during an individual's lifetime (such as strong muscles from working out) are not passed on to offspring. D) Competition for resources in an environment can drive natural selection by favoring individuals with traits that help them better compete for limited resources. Therefore, the correct answer is C) Inheritance of acquired characteristics (like strong muscles from working out), as it is not a mechanism that can directly cause evolution by natural selection.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Gluconeogenesis is the correct answer. It is the process of synthesizing glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as amino acids or glycerol. A) Glycolysis is the process of breaking down glucose into pyruvate to produce energy. C) The Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle, generates energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA derived from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. D) Oxidative phosphorylation is the final stage of cellular respiration where ATP is produced using energy derived from the electron transport chain. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are not the processes involved in converting simple sugars into complex carbohydrates.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The P wave on an ECG represents the depolarization of the atria. This electrical activity initiates the contraction of the atria, allowing blood to be pumped into the ventricles. The P wave is the first positive deflection seen on the ECG and signifies the beginning of atrial depolarization, which is a critical step in the cardiac cycle. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Option A (The repolarization of the ventricles) is represented by the T wave on the ECG. Option B (The electrical conduction through the AV node) is not represented by the P wave but rather by the PR interval on the ECG. Option C (The contraction phase of the ventricles (systole)) is more related to the QRS complex on the ECG, which represents ventricular depolarization and contraction.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The thoracic duct is the largest lymphatic vessel in the body, responsible for draining lymph from most parts of the body except for the right upper quadrant. The jugular vein, subclavian vein, and aorta are not part of the lymphatic system; they are blood vessels and do not serve as lymphatic vessels. Therefore, choices A, C, and D are incorrect as they are not associated with the lymphatic system's transport of lymph.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the corpus callosum. It is a thick band of nerve fibers that connects the two hemispheres of the brain, facilitating communication and coordination between them. The thalamus acts as a relay station for sensory information, the hypothalamus regulates basic functions like hunger and thirst, and the medulla oblongata controls vital functions such as breathing and heart rate. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not specifically connect the two hemispheres of the brain as the corpus callosum does.