HESI A2
Anatomy HESI A2 Practice Test Questions
Question 1 of 9
Which part of the brain controls voluntary movement?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The cerebrum, specifically the motor cortex located within it, is responsible for controlling voluntary movements such as walking, writing, and speaking. This region of the brain plays a crucial role in coordinating and executing voluntary muscle actions, making it the correct answer in this context. The cerebellum (Choice A) primarily coordinates balance, posture, and coordination of voluntary movements but does not control voluntary movement itself. The brainstem (Choice C) is responsible for basic life functions like breathing and heart rate, not voluntary movements. The medulla oblongata (Choice D) controls vital functions like blood pressure and breathing, not voluntary movement.
Question 2 of 9
What is the main function of white blood cells?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The main function of white blood cells, also known as leukocytes, is to fight infections and foreign invaders to protect the body from harm. They play a crucial role in the immune system by identifying and destroying pathogens like bacteria and viruses, essential for maintaining the body's health and overall immunity. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect as carrying oxygen is primarily done by red blood cells, carrying nutrients is a function of various body systems, and removing waste products is mainly the role of the kidneys and liver, not white blood cells.
Question 3 of 9
Which structure in the ear is responsible for balance?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The semicircular canals in the inner ear are responsible for maintaining balance by detecting changes in head position and movement. These structures contain fluid and hair cells that send signals to the brain regarding the body's orientation in space, helping us stay balanced and navigate our surroundings. The cochlea is responsible for hearing, the ossicles are involved in sound transmission, and the Eustachian tube helps equalize pressure in the middle ear, but they are not directly related to balance.
Question 4 of 9
Which part of the brain is involved in processing visual information?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Occipital lobe. The occipital lobe, situated at the back of the brain, is specifically responsible for processing visual information received from the eyes. It plays a crucial role in interpreting and making sense of visual stimuli, allowing individuals to perceive and comprehend the world around them. The Temporal lobe (Choice A) is involved in processing auditory information and memory, not visual processing. The Parietal lobe (Choice C) is responsible for processing sensory information from various parts of the body, but not specifically visual information. The Frontal lobe (Choice D) is involved in functions such as decision-making, problem-solving, and voluntary movement, but not processing visual stimuli.
Question 5 of 9
What is the primary function of platelets in the blood?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: To clot blood. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, have a primary function in blood clotting. They help in the process of coagulation, forming clots to prevent excessive bleeding when injuries occur. Platelets play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the circulatory system by sealing off damaged blood vessels and promoting wound healing. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because platelets do not carry oxygen, fight infections, or transport nutrients in the blood.
Question 6 of 9
What is the primary function of hemoglobin in red blood cells?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'To carry oxygen.' Hemoglobin in red blood cells binds to oxygen in the lungs and transports it to the tissues and organs throughout the body. This oxygen transport is crucial for cellular respiration and the overall functioning of the body. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because hemoglobin's primary function is not to transport nutrients, fight infections, or produce energy in red blood cells.
Question 7 of 9
Which organ is responsible for the production of hormones during stress?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The adrenal cortex is the organ responsible for producing stress hormones like cortisol and aldosterone, which play a crucial role in the body's stress response. During stress, the adrenal cortex releases cortisol, a hormone that helps the body deal with stress by increasing blood sugar, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in metabolism. Parathyroid gland is responsible for calcium regulation, the posterior pituitary gland secretes hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin which are not directly related to the stress response, and the hypothalamus plays a role in regulating hormonal balance and various bodily functions but is not primarily responsible for producing stress hormones.
Question 8 of 9
What is the function of the gallbladder?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: To store and concentrate bile. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, which is produced by the liver. Bile is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats. It helps in emulsifying fats and facilitating their breakdown by enzymes for better absorption. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the gallbladder does not produce bile (it is produced by the liver), detoxify harmful substances, or directly break down fats. Its main role is to store and concentrate bile before releasing it into the small intestine.
Question 9 of 9
Which vitamin is essential for bone health?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Vitamin D is the correct answer. It is essential for bone health as it helps in the absorption of calcium, a crucial mineral for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Adequate levels of Vitamin D are necessary to prevent conditions like osteoporosis and ensure optimal bone development and strength. Choice A, Vitamin A, is important for vision and immune function, but it is not directly related to bone health. Choice C, Vitamin C, is essential for collagen synthesis and immune function, but it is not primarily responsible for bone health. Choice D, Vitamin K, plays a role in blood clotting and bone metabolism, but Vitamin D has a more direct impact on bone health through its role in calcium absorption.