Why is an extensive network of blood vessels necessary to supply the endocrine glands?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Endocrine glands release hormones directly into the blood, which is why they require a rich blood supply to ensure effective hormone distribution throughout the body. The extensive network of blood vessels allows hormones to be quickly transported to target tissues and organs, regulating various physiological functions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because endocrine glands do not filter waste from the blood or the glands themselves. They release hormones into the bloodstream to regulate bodily functions, making a direct connection to the blood supply crucial for their function.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Artificial/active. The MMR vaccine provides artificial/active immunity. It works by introducing a weakened or killed form of the virus to trigger the body's immune response, leading to the production of antibodies that offer long-lasting protection against measles, mumps, and rubella. Artificial immunity is obtained through medical intervention, such as vaccination, while active immunity involves the immune system's direct response to an antigen. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because the MMR vaccine does not provide passive immunity nor is it acquired naturally; instead, it stimulates the body to actively produce its immune response.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Smallpox was eradicated globally through an intensive vaccination program. The World Health Organization (WHO) led a successful global campaign to vaccinate people against smallpox, ultimately leading to its eradication in 1980. AIDS, diabetes type 1, and rheumatoid arthritis are serious conditions, but they were not eliminated through vaccination programs like smallpox. Therefore, the correct answer is B, Smallpox. AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and remains a significant global health issue. Diabetes type 1 is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, leading to high blood sugar levels. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation and pain.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A taxonomic system allows scientists to classify living organisms based on their molecular and genetic traits. This classification helps in understanding the relationships and evolutionary history of different organisms, providing insights into their characteristics and behaviors. Choices A, B, and C do not directly relate to the primary purpose and benefit of a taxonomic system, which is the systematic classification of organisms.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C, 'Type of road salt used.' In an experiment, the independent variable is the one manipulated by the researcher to observe its impact on the dependent variable. In this study, the researchers are altering the type of road salt used to determine its influence on the deicing speed, thus making it the independent variable. The other choices are not the independent variable as they are not deliberately manipulated in the experiment: A - 'Deicing time period' is an outcome measure dependent on the type of salt used; B - 'Road used for deicing' is not controlled or manipulated; D - 'Amount of road salt used' would be a potential confounding variable rather than the independent variable as it could affect the outcome along with the type of salt.