Section A: Short Answer Questions

*Q1: Write a short note over the Thomas R. Malthus contribution in Darwin's theory of natural
selection?*
A1: Thomas R. Malthus was an economist who proposed that populations grow exponentially while
resources grow arithmetically, leading to a struggle for existence. This idea influenced Darwin's concept
of natural selection, where individuals with favorable traits are more likely to survive and reproduce,
passing on those traits to future generations.

*Q2: What are the causes of Acid rain?*

A2: Acid rain is caused by the release of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) into the
atmosphere. These pollutants can originate from burning fossil fuels, industrial processes, and vehicle
emissions. When these gases react with water vapor, they form sulfuric and nitric acids, which then fall
as acid rain.

*Q3: What is the significance of Glomerular filtration in nephron's function?*

A3: Glomerular filtration is the first step in the process of urine formation. It involves the filtration of
blood in the glomerulus, allowing water, ions, and small molecules to pass into the Bowman's capsule
while preventing larger molecules and blood cells from passing through. This filtration is crucial for
removing waste products and excess substances from the blood.

*Q4: What characteristic differentiate Bone to Cartilage write any four?*

A4:
1. *Composition*: Bone is made up of collagen and minerals like calcium phosphate, while cartilage is
composed primarily of collagen and elastin fibers without calcium.
2. *Hardness*: Bone is rigid and hard, whereas cartilage is flexible and softer.
3. *Vascularization*: Bone is highly vascularized, meaning it has a rich blood supply, while cartilage is
avascular, lacking blood vessels.
4. *Regeneration*: Bone has a greater capacity for self-repair and regeneration compared to cartilage.

*Q5: Describe briefly miscarriage and its causes in human female.*

A5: Miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy before the fetus can survive outside the uterus,
typically before the 20th week. Causes can include genetic abnormalities in the fetus, maternal health
conditions (such as diabetes or thyroid disease), hormonal imbalances, infections, lifestyle factors (like
smoking or excessive caffeine), and physical problems with the uterus or cervix.

*Q6: How the protein hormone (Hydrophilic) shows its action?*

A6: Protein hormones (hydrophilic) bind to receptors on the surface of target cells because they cannot
pass through the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. This binding activates a secondary messenger system
inside the cell, leading to a cascade of biochemical events that result in the desired cellular response.
*Q7: Define the Habituation behaviour in the light of suitable example.*
A7: Habituation is a simple form of learning in which an organism gradually reduces its response to a
repeated, harmless stimulus. For example, a snail initially retracts into its shell when touched, but if
touched repeatedly without any harmful consequence, it eventually stops retracting.

*Q8: Describe the role of cytoplasm in development.*

A8: The cytoplasm plays a crucial role in development by providing a medium for biochemical reactions
and holding organelles in place. It helps in the distribution of nutrients, supports cellular movements,
and contributes to the development and differentiation of cells by facilitating intracellular transport and
communication.

*Q9: Write a short note over labeled in given diagram.*

A9: The diagram shows the structure of a gland, likely a thyroid gland based on its shape and location.
The gland produces hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate
metabolism, growth, and development. The thyroid gland is crucial for maintaining metabolic rate, heart
function, digestive function, muscle control, brain development, and bone maintenance.

### Section B: Long Answer Questions

*Q10: Write comprehensive notes over three of the following with diagrams:*

1. *Pancreas*: The pancreas is both an endocrine and exocrine gland. Its endocrine function involves
releasing hormones like insulin and glucagon to regulate blood sugar levels. The exocrine function
includes producing digestive enzymes that are released into the small intestine to aid in digestion.
(Include diagram of pancreas showing its dual functions.)

2. *Limbic and Reticular formation systems*: The limbic system is involved in emotions, behavior, and
long-term memory, consisting of structures like the hippocampus and amygdala. The reticular
formation, located in the brainstem, regulates sleep-wake cycles and consciousness. (Include diagram
showing limbic system and reticular formation.)

3. *Feedback mechanism with suitable example*: Feedback mechanisms are processes that maintain
homeostasis in the body. A negative feedback mechanism reduces the output or activity to return an
organ or system to its normal range, such as insulin release in response to high blood glucose levels.
(Include diagram of negative feedback loop for blood glucose regulation.)

4. *Autonomic Nervous System*: The autonomic nervous system controls involuntary body functions
and consists of the sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions. The sympathetic division prepares the
body for "fight or flight" responses, while the parasympathetic division promotes "rest and digest"
activities. (Include diagram of autonomic nervous system showing both divisions.)
*Q11: Describe in detail the evolution of Eukaryote from Prokaryote.*
A11: The evolution of eukaryotes from prokaryotes is explained by the endosymbiotic theory. According
to this theory, eukaryotic cells originated from a symbiotic relationship between early prokaryotic cells.
A larger prokaryotic cell engulfed smaller ones, which then became the mitochondria and chloroplasts.
These organelles have their own DNA and resemble bacteria, supporting this theory. The development
of internal membranes, such as the nuclear envelope, also played a crucial role in the evolution of
complex eukaryotic cells.

*Q12: What is composition of Ozone layer, its causes of depletion, and role to protect life on Earth?*
A12: The ozone layer is composed of ozone (O₃) molecules and is located in the stratosphere. It protects
life on Earth by absorbing the majority of the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Depletion of the
ozone layer is caused by human-made chemicals like chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which release chlorine
and bromine atoms that break down ozone molecules. The ozone layer's protection is vital for
preventing increased rates of skin cancer, cataracts, and other UV-induced health issues, as well as
protecting ecosystems and wildlife.