GED Science Practice

What kind of growth does cancer refer to?

1. an electrical device used to store electrical charge

2. long and slender with a very small internal diameter

3. any malignant growth or tumor caused by abnormal cell division

4. a major biotic community characterized by plant life and climate

The correct answer is: any malignant growth or tumor caused by abnormal cell division

Cancer refers to any malignant growth or tumor caused by abnormal cell division. This occurs when the body’s cells begin to divide uncontrollably, forming mass occurrences of cells that can invade and damage surrounding tissues. Unlike normal cells, which grow and divide in a regulated manner, cancer cells bypass these controls, often leading to the formation of a tumor. This dysregulation can result in a range of health issues, as the malignant cells can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system, a process known as metastasis. The other options, while related to different concepts, do not pertain to the biology of cancer. For instance, the first choice refers to an electrical component, the second describes a physical characteristic of a material (possibly a tube or vessel), and the fourth pertains to ecological systems. Understanding that cancer is fundamentally about the abnormal proliferation of cells provides clarity about its nature and the health challenges it poses.