Which of the following describes a reflex arc?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Choice D correctly describes a reflex arc. A reflex arc is a neural pathway that controls a reflex action. It involves a specific sequence of events that occur in response to a stimulus, which is rapidly and involuntarily processed by the spinal cord. The spinal cord coordinates the quick processing of sensory input and the generation of a motor response without involving the brain, allowing for rapid protective responses. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not accurately describe a reflex arc. A reflex arc is specifically related to the rapid and involuntary response to a stimulus through neural pathways involving the spinal cord, not memory storage, visual and auditory acuity maintenance, or heart rate and blood pressure autoregulation.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the standard anatomical position, plane 1 (coronal/frontal plane) divides the body into anterior and posterior portions, plane 2 (sagittal plane) divides the body into left and right portions, and plane 3 (transverse/horizontal plane) divides the body into superior and inferior portions. Therefore, the correct sequence is Plane 1 as coronal, Plane 2 as sagittal, and Plane 3 as transverse, which corresponds to Choice A. Choice B is incorrect as it misidentifies the planes. Plane 2 cannot be coronal as it specifically divides the body into left and right portions. Choice C is incorrect as it misidentifies Plane 2 as sagittal when it should be coronal. Choice D is incorrect as it incorrectly designates Plane 2 as coronal when it should be sagittal, leading to an inaccurate sequence of the primary body planes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. The forebrain is primarily responsible for higher cognitive functions such as perception, interpretation, and integration of sensory information, emotional responses, and voluntary movements. Functions like regulating blood pressure and heart rate are mainly controlled by various structures in the brainstem, such as the medulla oblongata and the pons. Choices B, C, and D are all functions associated with the forebrain. Choice B relates to the limbic system, which is part of the forebrain responsible for emotional responses. Choice C corresponds to the occipital lobe in the forebrain, involved in processing visual information. Choice D involves the motor cortex and other areas in the forebrain that coordinate voluntary movements.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, where a child complains of heavy breathing even when relaxing and has no history of respiratory problems, the most likely issue is hyperventilation. Hyperventilation is an abnormal breathing pattern where a person breathes in excess of the body's requirements. It can be triggered by stress, anxiety, panic attacks, or lower-than-normal carbon dioxide levels in the blood. Unlike asthma, a blood clot, or exercising too hard, hyperventilation fits the symptoms described and is more common in individuals without a history of respiratory problems.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The purpose of a catalyst is to increase a reaction's rate by decreasing the activation energy required for the reaction to occur. This allows the reaction to proceed more quickly without being consumed in the process. The catalyst provides an alternate mechanism with a lower activation energy, making it easier for the reactants to convert into products. Choice A is incorrect because a catalyst lowers, not increases, the activation energy. Choice B is incorrect because a catalyst does not affect the temperature directly but provides an alternative pathway for the reaction to occur more easily. Choice D is incorrect because a catalyst does not lower the temperature but facilitates the reaction by lowering the activation energy barrier. Therefore, the correct answer is C, 'To increase a reaction rate by decreasing the activation energy.'