What is the role of the stomach in digestion?

Questions 38

HESI A2

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Question 1 of 9

What is the role of the stomach in digestion?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To break down food. The stomach's primary function in digestion is to mechanically and chemically break down food. It achieves this by utilizing gastric acid and digestive enzymes to convert food into chyme, a semi-liquid mixture. The chyme is then passed to the small intestine for further processing and absorption of nutrients. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the stomach's main role is not to absorb nutrients, secrete digestive enzymes, or transport nutrients; instead, it primarily focuses on breaking down food.

Question 2 of 9

When an individual is under stress, hormones are released. Which of the following is not one of the locations where hormones are released when under stress?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The parathyroid gland is not a location where hormones are typically released during stress. It primarily regulates calcium levels in the blood through the release of parathyroid hormone (PTH). On the other hand, the adrenal cortex releases hormones like cortisol in response to stress, the posterior pituitary releases oxytocin and antidiuretic hormone, and the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in coordinating stress responses through the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH). Therefore, the parathyroid gland is the correct answer as it is not directly involved in the stress response pathway.

Question 3 of 9

Which part of the brain is involved in processing visual information?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Occipital lobe. The occipital lobe, situated at the back of the brain, is specifically responsible for processing visual information received from the eyes. It plays a crucial role in interpreting and making sense of visual stimuli, allowing individuals to perceive and comprehend the world around them. The Temporal lobe (Choice A) is involved in processing auditory information and memory, not visual processing. The Parietal lobe (Choice C) is responsible for processing sensory information from various parts of the body, but not specifically visual information. The Frontal lobe (Choice D) is involved in functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and voluntary movement, but not processing visual stimuli.

Question 4 of 9

Which part of the brain controls voluntary movement?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The cerebrum, specifically the motor cortex located within it, is responsible for controlling voluntary movements such as walking, writing, and speaking. This region of the brain plays a crucial role in coordinating and executing voluntary muscle actions, making it the correct answer in this context. The cerebellum (Choice A) primarily coordinates balance, posture, and coordination of voluntary movements but does not control voluntary movement itself. The brainstem (Choice C) is responsible for basic life functions like breathing and heart rate, not voluntary movements. The medulla oblongata (Choice D) controls vital functions like blood pressure and breathing, not voluntary movement.

Question 5 of 9

What is the role of platelets in the blood?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, play a crucial role in blood clotting. When there is an injury, platelets adhere to the site and release substances that form a clot, preventing excessive bleeding. This function is vital for maintaining hemostasis and preventing blood loss. Choice A is incorrect because red blood cells, not platelets, are responsible for transporting oxygen. Choice B is incorrect as white blood cells are primarily responsible for fighting infections. Choice D is incorrect as nutrients are mainly transported by plasma and red blood cells, not platelets.

Question 6 of 9

Which structure in the ear is responsible for balance?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The semicircular canals in the inner ear are responsible for maintaining balance by detecting changes in head position and movement. These structures contain fluid and hair cells that send signals to the brain regarding the body's orientation in space, helping us stay balanced and navigate our surroundings. The cochlea is responsible for hearing, the ossicles are involved in sound transmission, and the Eustachian tube helps equalize pressure in the middle ear, but they are not directly related to balance.

Question 7 of 9

What is the role of the liver in detoxification?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. The liver's primary function in detoxification is to convert harmful toxins into less harmful substances. This process helps in safeguarding the body from the adverse effects of toxins and is essential for maintaining overall health. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because secreting bile, storing glucose, and producing insulin are functions of the liver unrelated to detoxification.

Question 8 of 9

What is the role of the mitochondria in the cell?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Energy production. Mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell because they generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through the process of cellular respiration. ATP is a molecule that stores and releases energy, providing the cell with the necessary energy for various activities and functions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Protein synthesis primarily occurs in the ribosomes, breaking down waste is mainly carried out by lysosomes, and cell division is orchestrated by the nucleus and other organelles like the centrioles.

Question 9 of 9

What is the function of the urinary bladder?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To store urine. The urinary bladder's primary function is to store urine produced by the kidneys until it is ready to be excreted from the body. It acts as a reservoir that temporarily holds urine until an appropriate time for elimination. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the urinary bladder does not filter waste from the blood, regulate fluid balance, or directly remove waste from the body. These functions are primarily carried out by the kidneys and other organs in the excretory system.

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