Which of the following is a function of the skeletal system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: To provide structural support. The skeletal system is primarily responsible for supporting the body's structure, protecting internal organs, facilitating movement, and storing minerals. While bones do play a role in producing red blood cells (hematopoiesis) in the bone marrow, the main function related to the question is providing structural support. Choices C and D are incorrect as the skeletal system is not involved in transporting nutrients or storing fat. The main functions of the skeletal system are related to support, protection, movement facilitation, mineral storage, and hematopoiesis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Fibrous joint. Fibrous joints connect the bones of the skull, providing stability with little to no movement. These joints are made of fibrous connective tissue, which holds the bones tightly together and prevents movement, making them ideal for the structure of the skull. Choice A: Hinge joint is incorrect because hinge joints allow movement in a single plane like the elbow or knee, which is not characteristic of the joints in the skull. Choice C: Ball-and-socket joint is incorrect as this type of joint allows for a wide range of movement in multiple planes, such as the hip and shoulder joints, which is not the case for skull bones. Choice D: Pivot joint is incorrect as pivot joints allow rotation around a central axis, as seen in the joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae (atlas and axis), but not in the skull bones.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The question inquires about the brain region responsible for voluntary muscle movements. The correct answer is the Cerebrum. The cerebrum is the main part of the brain involved in voluntary muscle control and motor coordination. The Medulla oblongata is primarily responsible for regulating vital functions like breathing and heart rate, not voluntary muscle movements. The Hypothalamus plays a role in regulating body temperature, thirst, hunger, and other homeostatic processes. The Thalamus serves as a relay station for sensory information but is not directly responsible for voluntary muscle movements.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The diaphragm plays a crucial role in respiration by contracting and expanding the lungs. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, creating more space in the chest cavity and allowing the lungs to expand. This expansion leads to a decrease in pressure inside the lungs, causing air to rush in. When the diaphragm relaxes, it moves back up, decreasing the space in the chest cavity and causing the lungs to deflate. This action increases the pressure in the lungs, leading to air being pushed out. Therefore, the diaphragm's main function is to facilitate the inhalation and exhalation of air by contracting and expanding the lungs. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the diaphragm's primary function is not to regulate air pressure in the lungs, store oxygen, or break down carbon dioxide. Instead, its main purpose is to aid in the mechanical process of breathing.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Vein. Veins carry blood back to the heart from various parts of the body, functioning as the vessels that return blood to the heart. Arteries, on the other hand, carry blood away from the heart to different parts of the body to deliver oxygen and nutrients. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels where the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products occurs between the blood and tissues. Lymphatic vessels are part of the lymphatic system, responsible for maintaining fluid balance and aiding in immunity. Therefore, the correct choice is B as it directly relates to the blood flow back to the heart.