Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the cerebellum. It plays a vital role in balance and coordination by controlling motor functions, precision, and timing of movements. The cerebrum is primarily involved in higher brain functions such as thinking and problem-solving. The hypothalamus regulates essential bodily functions like temperature and hunger, while the thalamus serves as a relay station for sensory information, directing it to the appropriate areas of the brain for processing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: A) Cell division refers to the process by which a cell divides into two daughter cells. B) Cell differentiation is the process by which cells become specialized for specific functions. C) Cell growth is the increase in cell size or number. D) Cell regeneration is the process of cells restoring damaged or lost tissues by replacing or repairing the damaged cells. This process is essential for healing wounds and maintaining tissue integrity.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Surface waves exhibit both longitudinal and transverse motion. These waves travel along the boundary between two different mediums, such as water and air, causing particles to move both parallel (longitudinal) and perpendicular (transverse) to the wave's direction of travel. This unique characteristic distinguishes surface waves from other types of waves, making them the correct answer in this context. Electromagnetic waves, like light and radio waves, are purely transverse in nature, propagating through vacuum or different media through oscillating electric and magnetic fields perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. Mechanical waves, including both transverse (e.g., water waves) and longitudinal (e.g., sound waves in air) waves, do not typically exhibit both types of motion simultaneously, unlike surface waves.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Friction is a force that opposes motion when two surfaces are in contact. It acts in the opposite direction to the direction of motion, causing objects to slow down or come to a stop. Therefore, friction decreases speed rather than increasing it. Choice A is incorrect as friction does not increase speed but rather hinders it. Choice C is incorrect because friction does have an impact on speed by slowing down objects. Choice D is incorrect as friction's effect is not making objects float but rather causing resistance to motion.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The binding energy released during the fusion of light nuclei.' Nuclear fusion involves the combination of light nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing energy in the process. This energy arises from the binding energy that keeps the nucleus intact. As lighter nuclei fuse, they create a more stable nucleus, and the excess energy is emitted as radiation. This fundamental process is the primary source of energy in stars and holds promise as a potential future energy source on Earth. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A, 'The fission of heavy nuclei,' is related to nuclear fission, not fusion. Choice C, 'Electronic transitions within atoms,' refers to energy release in atomic transitions, not nuclear fusion. Choice D, 'Matter-antimatter annihilation,' is a process where matter and antimatter collide, converting their mass into energy, but it is not the energy source for nuclear fusion.