Which of the following is a role of platelets in hemostasis?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis by forming plugs to stop bleeding. Choice B is incorrect because platelets do not promote vasodilation; instead, they help in vasoconstriction. Choice C is incorrect as the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin is a function of the coagulation cascade involving various clotting factors, not platelets. Choice D is incorrect as platelets do not directly activate calcium; instead, they play a role in the activation of other clotting factors.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Sodium is the most abundant ion in extracellular fluid. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Calcium (Choice A) is mainly found in bones and teeth, Chloride (Choice B) is the major anion in extracellular fluid but not the most abundant ion, and Potassium (Choice D) is found predominantly inside cells.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Macrophages are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system by engulfing and digesting cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, cancer cells, and old or damaged cells. Basophils are primarily involved in allergic reactions and parasitic infections, eosinophils combat multicellular parasites and have a role in allergic reactions, and B-cells are responsible for producing antibodies. Therefore, the correct answer is macrophages as they are specialized in phagocytosis and removal of unwanted cells and microorganisms.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lowering the hand by straightening the elbow is the action of extending the forearm, which is primarily done by the triceps brachii muscle. The triceps brachii is the main extensor muscle of the elbow joint. The biceps brachii is responsible for flexing the elbow, not extending it, making it an incorrect choice. Brachialis is a strong elbow flexor, and brachioradialis helps in flexing the elbow and pronating the forearm, so they are not the primary muscles involved in straightening the elbow.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is stomach acid. Stomach acid, also known as gastric acid, plays a crucial role in destroying ingested pathogens due to its high acidity. The low pH of stomach acid helps to kill bacteria and other pathogens that may be present in the food we consume. Lymphatic fluid is involved in immune function and fat absorption, not pathogen destruction. Bicarbonate is a base that neutralizes stomach acid to prevent damage to the stomach lining. Lipase is an enzyme that aids in the digestion of fats but is not involved in pathogen destruction.