HESI A2
Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test Questions
Question 1 of 5
What is the function of the alveoli in the lungs?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The alveoli are tiny air sacs in the lungs responsible for the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, during breathing. Oxygen is taken in and carbon dioxide is released through this process, enabling the body to receive oxygen and expel carbon dioxide. Choice A is incorrect because the alveoli do not absorb oxygen but facilitate the exchange of gases. Choice B is incorrect as the alveoli do not remove carbon dioxide but aid in the exchange of gases. Choice D is incorrect as the alveoli are not involved in regulating blood pressure but in gas exchange.
Question 2 of 5
What part of the eye is responsible for focusing light on the retina?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The lens of the eye is responsible for focusing light on the retina. When light enters the eye, it first passes through the cornea, which helps in bending the light, and then the lens further refracts and focuses the light onto the retina at the back of the eye. The retina contains photoreceptor cells that convert light into neural signals, which are then sent to the brain for visual processing. The cornea is the transparent outermost layer of the eye that helps in focusing light, but the main responsibility lies with the lens. The retina is the layer at the back of the eye that receives the focused light and initiates the process of vision. The pupil is the opening in the center of the iris that controls the amount of light entering the eye and is not directly involved in focusing light on the retina.
Question 3 of 5
What is the function of hemoglobin in red blood cells?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'To transport oxygen.' Hemoglobin in red blood cells plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen. It binds to oxygen in the lungs and carries it to the body's tissues and organs for cellular respiration. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because hemoglobin's primary function is to bind and transport oxygen, not to fight infections, carry carbon dioxide, or store oxygen.
Question 4 of 5
Which cellular structure is responsible for protein synthesis?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ribosome. Ribosomes, the cellular structures located in the cytoplasm or on the endoplasmic reticulum, are responsible for protein synthesis in the cell. They are the sites where mRNA is translated into proteins, making them essential for the synthesis of proteins in all living cells. The other choices, such as the nucleus (choice A), endoplasmic reticulum (choice C), and Golgi apparatus (choice D), are not directly involved in protein synthesis. The nucleus contains DNA and is responsible for housing the genetic material, the endoplasmic reticulum is involved in protein folding and transport, and the Golgi apparatus is responsible for modifying, sorting, and packaging proteins.
Question 5 of 5
What role does the liver play in metabolism?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Producing enzymes. The liver is involved in metabolism by producing enzymes that are essential for regulating various metabolic processes in the body. While the liver does store glucose, secrete bile, and detoxify harmful substances, its primary role in metabolism is producing enzymes that facilitate biochemical reactions necessary for energy production, nutrient breakdown, and waste elimination. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because although the liver performs these functions, they are not directly related to its primary role in metabolism, which is producing enzymes.