Which of the following is a structure found in the upper respiratory tract?

Questions 38

HESI A2

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Quizlet HESI A2 Anatomy and Physiology Questions

Question 1 of 9

Which of the following is a structure found in the upper respiratory tract?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The pharynx is indeed a structure located in the upper respiratory tract. It acts as a common passageway for both air heading to the lungs and food traveling to the esophagus, making it a vital structure for breathing and swallowing functions. The larynx, trachea, and esophagus are also part of the respiratory and digestive systems but are not specifically located in the upper respiratory tract. The larynx is situated below the pharynx, while the trachea is found below the larynx, and the esophagus is part of the digestive system, not the respiratory tract.

Question 2 of 9

What is the function of the small intestine?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the digested food into the bloodstream for distribution throughout the body. Therefore, the correct function of the small intestine is to absorb nutrients. Choice A is incorrect because the gallbladder stores bile, not the small intestine. Choice C is incorrect because the digestion process primarily occurs in the stomach and small intestine. Choice D is incorrect because while the small intestine does play a role in enzyme production, its primary function is nutrient absorption.

Question 3 of 9

What is the function of the adrenal glands?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The adrenal glands function to produce hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones play essential roles in regulating metabolism, immune response, and the body's response to stress. Therefore, the correct answer is that the adrenal glands produce hormones. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as regulating blood sugar is primarily done by the pancreas, producing red blood cells is the function of the bone marrow, and filtering blood is carried out by the kidneys, not the adrenal glands.

Question 4 of 9

Which of the following is not a component of the central nervous system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The central nervous system comprises the brain and spinal cord, responsible for processing and transmitting information. The retina, though part of the eye, is an extension of the central nervous system. However, the heart is part of the circulatory system, responsible for pumping blood throughout the body. Therefore, the correct answer is the heart as it is not a component of the central nervous system.

Question 5 of 9

What is the primary function of the digestive system?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the digestive system is to break down food into smaller molecules and absorb nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These nutrients are then utilized by the body for energy, growth, and repair. The digestive system plays a crucial role in the process of extracting essential components from food and distributing them to the body's cells through the bloodstream. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because transporting oxygen, producing hormones, and transporting blood are functions associated with other body systems like the respiratory system, endocrine system, and circulatory system, respectively, not the digestive system.

Question 6 of 9

What is the primary function of the cardiovascular system?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "To transport oxygen and nutrients." The primary function of the cardiovascular system is to transport oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to cells throughout the body and remove waste products. This system plays a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis by delivering essential substances to tissues and organs while eliminating metabolic waste. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because although the cardiovascular system indirectly helps in removing waste products through circulation, its primary function is focused on transporting essential substances and not on regulating body temperature or fighting infections.

Question 7 of 9

What is the primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'To filter waste from the blood.' The primary function of the kidneys in the urinary system is to filter waste products and excess substances from the blood, forming urine, which is then excreted from the body. Kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining the body's overall balance by filtering out waste, regulating fluid levels, and helping in the elimination of toxins. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while the kidneys do produce urine, regulate blood pressure, and help in nutrient absorption indirectly, their primary function is the filtration of waste from the blood.

Question 8 of 9

Which organ in the digestive system absorbs nutrients?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive system. It plays a crucial role in absorbing digested food into the bloodstream, where the nutrients are then circulated to the body's cells for energy and other functions. The stomach primarily breaks down food through the action of acids and enzymes, while the large intestine absorbs water and salts, not nutrients. The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the mouth to the stomach and does not participate in nutrient absorption.

Question 9 of 9

Which of the following is a structure found in the upper respiratory tract?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The pharynx is a structure found in the upper respiratory tract. It serves as a common pathway for both air and food, playing a crucial role in directing air to the trachea and food to the esophagus. The larynx, trachea, and esophagus are important structures in the respiratory and digestive systems, but the pharynx specifically belongs to the upper respiratory tract, making it the correct answer.

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