Which of the following statements about fungi is FALSE?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A) This statement is true. Fungi can exist in both unicellular (yeast) and multicellular (molds and mushrooms) forms. B) This statement is false. While some fungi can be parasitic and cause diseases in humans, not all fungi exhibit this behavior. Many fungi are beneficial and play essential roles in ecosystems. C) This statement is true. Fungi are crucial for decomposition and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. They break down organic matter and recycle nutrients back into the environment. D) This statement is true. Some fungi, like mushrooms, are used in food production and are consumed by humans.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A) Desertification is the correct term for the gradual loss of topsoil due to wind or water erosion. It refers to the process by which fertile land becomes desert, usually due to factors like drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture practices. This process can lead to the degradation of land and contribute to the expansion of deserts. B) Leaching is the process in which minerals are washed out of the soil by water moving downwards through it. This is different from the loss of topsoil due to erosion. C) Salinization occurs when salt accumulates in the soil, typically as a result of irrigation in arid regions. While salinization affects soil quality, it is not specifically related to the gradual loss of topsoil due to erosion. D) Acidification refers to the decrease in soil pH, often caused by factors like acid rain or the use of acidic fertilizers. This process is distinct from the gradual loss of topsoil due to erosion.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When sodium hydroxide (NaOH) reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl), a neutralization reaction occurs. The products of this reaction are water (H2O) and a salt, which is sodium chloride (NaCl). The chemical equation for this reaction is: NaOH + HCl -> NaCl + H2O. Choice B is incorrect because chlorine gas and sodium oxide are not the products of this reaction. Choice C is incorrect as sodium metal and water are not the products formed in this neutralization reaction. Choice D is incorrect because a reaction does occur between NaOH and HCl, resulting in the formation of NaCl and H2O. Therefore, the correct answer is A: Hydrogen gas and sodium chloride (NaCl).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pericardium is a double-layered sac that surrounds and protects the heart. Its main functions include preventing overfilling of the heart, providing a physical barrier against infection and inflammation, and reducing friction between the heart and surrounding structures. Choices A, C, and D do not accurately describe the function of the pericardium. Option B is the correct answer as it aligns with the protective and supportive role of the pericardium, distinguishing it from the functions attributed to choices A, C, and D.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the process of osmosis, solvent molecules move from an area of high solute concentration to low solute concentration. This movement occurs to equalize the solute concentrations on both sides of the semi-permeable membrane. As water tends to move towards higher solute concentrations, the solvent moves in this direction to balance the concentrations and establish equilibrium. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because osmosis involves the movement of solvent, not solute, and it moves towards the area of higher solute concentration, not lower. Therefore, the correct answer is option D.