Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Activation energy. Catalysts function by reducing the activation energy needed for a chemical reaction to proceed. By lowering the activation energy, catalysts facilitate the reaction without being consumed themselves. Substrate energy, inhibitors, and promoters are not directly altered by catalysts in the same way activation energy is. Substrate energy refers to the energy of the reactants, which is not altered by catalysts. Inhibitors increase the activation energy required for a reaction, while promoters enhance the effectiveness of a catalyst but do not represent a quantity altered by catalysts.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Cartilage is a type of flexible connective tissue that acts as supportive pads providing cushioning at joints, like those found between the vertebrae of the spine. This specific function of cartilage helps in reducing friction and absorbing shock in these areas, contributing to joint flexibility and protection. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately describe the function and location of cartilage in the body. Option A incorrectly refers to dense connective tissue, which is different from cartilage. Option C describes tendons or ligaments, which are not cartilage. Option D refers to adipose tissue, which is a type of connective tissue that stores fat and provides insulation, but it is not cartilage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Stomach.' The stomach is an organ of the digestive system responsible for breaking down food through mechanical and chemical digestion. In contrast, the thyroid, intestines, and pancreas are glands. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism through hormone secretion, the intestines aid in digestion and nutrient absorption, and the pancreas secretes digestive enzymes and hormones. Therefore, the stomach is functionally different from the other options as it is an organ involved in digestion, while the others are glands with specific secretory functions.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because a decrease in natural predators can lead to an increase in the deer population as there are fewer predators to control their numbers. This explanation aligns with the situation described in the question, where the deer population has increased, causing issues for residents. Choice A is incorrect because an increase in food sources would not directly explain the increase in the deer population. Choice C is incorrect as it introduces a new factor of migration which is not mentioned in the question. Choice D is incorrect as an increase in hunting licenses sold would likely have the opposite effect on the deer population.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Pulmonary artery. The pulmonary artery carries deoxygenated blood from the heart to the lungs for oxygenation. This blood is considered the least oxygenated in the body as it has just returned from circulating through the body's tissues and is in need of oxygen replenishment. Choice A, the aorta, is incorrect as it carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Choice B, the vena cava, carries deoxygenated blood from the body back to the heart. Choice D, the femoral vein, also carries deoxygenated blood back to the heart from the lower extremities.