What is the primary role of the stomach in the digestive system?

Questions 38

HESI A2

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Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Questions

Question 1 of 9

What is the primary role of the stomach in the digestive system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary role of the stomach in the digestive system is to break down food. It accomplishes this through the action of gastric acid and digestive enzymes, which work together to break down food into a semi-liquid mixture known as chyme. Option B, 'To break down food,' is the correct answer. Option A, 'To absorb nutrients,' is incorrect because absorption mainly occurs in the small intestine. Option C, 'To secrete digestive enzymes,' is partially correct as the stomach does secrete digestive enzymes, but its primary function is to break down food. Option D, 'To store glucose,' is incorrect as glucose storage primarily occurs in the liver and muscles, not the stomach.

Question 2 of 9

Which structure in the kidney is responsible for filtering blood?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The glomerulus is the correct answer. It is a vital structure in the kidney responsible for filtering blood. The glomerulus is a network of capillaries that filters waste products and excess substances from the blood to form urine. While the Bowman's capsule, Loop of Henle, and Collecting duct are also essential components of the nephron, the primary site of blood filtration occurs at the glomerulus. The Bowman's capsule surrounds the glomerulus and collects the filtered fluid, the Loop of Henle reabsorbs water and important ions, and the Collecting duct further concentrates the urine, but none of these structures are primarily responsible for filtering blood as the glomerulus is.

Question 3 of 9

What is the primary function of the integumentary system?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protecting the body from external damage. The primary function of the integumentary system, which includes the skin, hair, and nails, is to act as a physical barrier that protects the body from external damage such as pathogens, UV radiation, and mechanical injuries. While the integumentary system does play roles in regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, its main and most crucial function is to provide a protective shield for the body. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although the integumentary system contributes to regulating body temperature and producing vitamin D, as well as housing cells involved in the immune response, its primary role is protection.

Question 4 of 9

What is the main function of the respiratory system?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The main function of the respiratory system is to absorb oxygen from the air into the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide from the body. Oxygen is essential for cellular respiration, the process through which cells generate energy. Carbon dioxide is a waste product expelled during this process. Choice A, 'To transport nutrients,' is incorrect as the respiratory system is not primarily responsible for transporting nutrients. Choice B, 'To regulate body temperature,' is incorrect as the respiratory system's main role is not temperature regulation. Choice D, 'To produce energy,' is incorrect because while oxygen obtained through respiration is used in the energy production process, the respiratory system itself does not directly produce energy.

Question 5 of 9

What is the role of the gallbladder in digestion?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The gallbladder's primary function in digestion is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver. Bile is essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. While the gallbladder does not produce bile (Choice A) or secrete digestive enzymes (Choice D), it plays a crucial role in storing and releasing bile when needed. Therefore, the correct answer is B.

Question 6 of 9

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The primary function of the nervous system is to transmit signals and coordinate body activities. It controls and regulates body functions by sending and receiving signals between different parts of the body, enabling responses to internal and external stimuli. This intricate network allows for communication between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body, ultimately facilitating movement, sensation, thoughts, and various bodily functions. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not represent the primary function of the nervous system. Fighting infections is primarily the role of the immune system, producing hormones is the function of the endocrine system, and regulating body temperature involves mechanisms of thermoregulation within the body, not directly controlled by the nervous system.

Question 7 of 9

What is the function of the lungs in the respiratory system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct function of the lungs in the respiratory system is to exchange gases. The lungs facilitate the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the air we breathe in and the blood, ensuring oxygen is absorbed and carbon dioxide is removed during respiration. Choice A is incorrect as the kidneys, not the lungs, filter blood. Choice C is incorrect as energy production primarily occurs in cells, not in the lungs. Choice D is incorrect as waste removal, such as the excretion of carbon dioxide, is a function of the lungs, but the primary function is the exchange of gases.

Question 8 of 9

What is the main function of the skeletal system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main function of the skeletal system is to provide structural support, protect internal organs, enable movement, and maintain the body's form. Choice A, 'To produce red blood cells,' is incorrect as the skeletal system's role in blood cell production is through the bone marrow, not its main function. Choice C, 'To regulate body temperature,' is incorrect as the skeletal system is not primarily responsible for regulating body temperature. Choice D, 'To store calcium,' is partially correct as the skeletal system does store calcium but this is not its main function; instead, it is essential for bone strength and muscle function.

Question 9 of 9

Which vitamin is necessary for calcium absorption?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium in the intestines, aiding in the maintenance of strong bones and teeth. It helps regulate calcium and phosphorus levels in the body, supporting bone health and preventing conditions like osteoporosis. Vitamin A (Choice A) is important for vision and immune function, not specifically for calcium absorption. Vitamin C (Choice B) is crucial for collagen synthesis and immune function but is not directly involved in calcium absorption. Vitamin K (Choice D) plays a role in blood clotting and bone health, but it is not primarily responsible for calcium absorption.

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