Where is the primary site for nutrient absorption from digested food in the human digestive system?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the human digestive system. It is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients from food occurs. The walls of the small intestine are lined with tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area available for absorption. Nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine and into the bloodstream to be transported to cells throughout the body for energy and other functions. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach and plays a role in swallowing, not nutrient absorption. The large intestine primarily absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter after the absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. The stomach mainly functions in the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food through muscular contractions and the secretion of digestive enzymes.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, cytoplasm. Cytoplasm is the fluid-filled, jelly-like substance within the cell that suspends the organelles. The nucleus, not the correct answer, is the organelle that contains the cell's genetic material. The plasma membrane, another incorrect choice, is the outer boundary of the cell that regulates what enters and exits the cell. The Golgi apparatus, also an incorrect choice, is an organelle involved in processing and packaging proteins.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Simple epithelium consists of a single layer of cells. This type of epithelium is found in areas where absorption, secretion, and filtration occur, as it allows for efficient exchange of substances across the epithelial barrier. Simple epithelium is well-suited for diffusion and filtration processes due to its thin nature, enabling substances to pass through easily. Choice A, 'No layers,' is incorrect as epithelial tissue always consists of at least one cell layer. Choice C, 'Two to several layers,' describes stratified epithelium, not simple epithelium, which has only one layer. Choice D, 'Many tightly packed layers,' is more characteristic of stratified epithelium, where multiple layers of cells are present. Therefore, the correct answer is B: 'One layer.'

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The myelin sheath, a fatty substance that insulates nerve fibers, is derived from nervous tissue, specifically glial cells. Glial cells, including oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system, are responsible for producing the myelin sheath that surrounds and insulates nerve fibers, aiding in the conduction of nerve impulses. Epithelial tissue (Choice A), Muscle tissue (Choice B), and Connective tissue (Choice D) are not responsible for producing the myelin sheath; instead, nervous tissue (glial cells) plays this crucial role.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, a form of cholesterol in the skin is converted into vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) through a series of chemical reactions. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption and bone health. Choice A, Vitamin A, is not synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight; it is obtained through dietary sources. Choice B, Vitamin C, is not synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight either. Vitamin C is obtained through dietary sources like fruits and vegetables. Choice D, Vitamin E, is not synthesized in the skin upon exposure to sunlight. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant and is obtained through dietary sources like nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.