Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Homeostatic mechanisms aim to maintain internal stability within the body. Choices A, B, and D all represent examples of homeostatic mechanisms. Shivering helps generate heat to raise body temperature back to normal levels. Increasing heart rate and force of contraction work to restore blood pressure. Insulin secretion after a meal helps regulate blood sugar levels. On the other hand, retaining fluid excessively can lead to fluid imbalance rather than maintaining internal stability, making it the incorrect choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Assimilation is the process of changing absorbed substances into different chemical forms. It occurs after nutrients from food are absorbed into the bloodstream and used by the body. Choice B, breaking down foods into nutrients that the body can absorb, refers to the process of digestion rather than assimilation. Choice C, eliminating waste from the body, describes the process of excretion. Choice D, an increase in body size without a change in overall shape, does not accurately define assimilation.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The statement that the parietal pleura is a visceral membrane is false. The parietal pleura is actually a membrane that lines the thoracic cavity and is responsible for protecting and cushioning the lungs. Visceral pleura, on the other hand, is the membrane that covers the surface of the lungs. Therefore, the parietal pleura is not a visceral membrane, making the correct answer 'False.' Choices C and D are not relevant as the question is asking for a true/false statement.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Homeostatic mechanisms aim to maintain internal stability within the body. Choices A, B, and D all represent examples of homeostatic mechanisms. Shivering helps generate heat to raise body temperature back to normal levels. Increasing heart rate and force of contraction work to restore blood pressure. Insulin secretion after a meal helps regulate blood sugar levels. On the other hand, retaining fluid excessively can lead to fluid imbalance rather than maintaining internal stability, making it the incorrect choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The parietal pericardium is a tough, fibrous outer layer that is attached to the diaphragm and the sternum but not directly to the surface of the heart. It forms a sac around the heart known as the pericardial sac. Therefore, the statement that the parietal pericardium is attached to the surface of the heart is false.