how does the body control blood pressure

ATI TEAS 7

ATI TEAS Science Questions

1. How is blood pressure controlled by the body?

A. By adjusting heart rate only
B. By regulating blood volume
C. By baroreceptors and hormones
D. By adjusting body temperature

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Blood pressure is controlled by baroreceptors located in the aortic arch and carotid arteries that detect changes in blood pressure levels. When blood pressure is high, these receptors signal for adjustments to lower it. Additionally, hormones such as renin from the kidneys are released when blood pressure drops, further aiding in blood pressure regulation. Choice A is incorrect because blood pressure regulation involves more than just adjusting heart rate; it also includes vasodilation and vasoconstriction. Choice B is incorrect as while blood volume can impact blood pressure, it is not the primary mechanism of blood pressure control. Choice D is incorrect as body temperature regulation is a separate physiological process and not directly related to blood pressure control.

2. Where is the thymus gland, crucial for immune system development, located?

A. Chest
B. Abdomen
C. Pelvis
D. Head and neck

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The thymus gland is located in the chest, specifically in the upper part of the chest behind the breastbone (sternum). It plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of T-lymphocytes (T cells), which are important for the immune system's function. Choice B (Abdomen), C (Pelvis), and D (Head and neck) are incorrect locations for the thymus gland. The thymus is not found in the abdomen, pelvis, head, or neck regions; it is uniquely situated in the upper chest area.

3. Identify the element with the electron configuration: 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6. To which group and period does this element belong?

A. Group 16, Period 3
B. Group 14, Period 3
C. Group 18, Period 3
D. Group 17, Period 2

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The given electron configuration matches that of Argon, an element found in Group 18 of the periodic table. This element is in the third period, as indicated by the highest energy level (n=3) where electrons are present. Therefore, the correct answer is Group 18, Period 3. Choice A (Group 16, Period 3) corresponds to sulfur, not the given electron configuration. Choice B (Group 14, Period 3) corresponds to silicon, not the given electron configuration. Choice D (Group 17, Period 2) corresponds to chlorine, which is in Period 3 but not in Group 18, making it incorrect for the given electron configuration.

4. A researcher wants to investigate the relationship between family income and quality of medical care. Which statement provides the best reason to conduct this investigation?

A. The researcher can identify affordable medical care to recommend to low-income families.
B. The investigation can help identify individuals who are healthy so they can maintain their health.
C. Results of this investigation may identify a group of people who do not receive quality medical care and could benefit from improved medical treatments.
D. There is a valid reason to conduct this investigation.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because identifying a group of individuals who do not receive quality medical care can lead to targeted interventions to improve their access to better medical treatments. This investigation can help address disparities in healthcare and improve outcomes for those in need. Choice A is incorrect because the focus is on identifying those who lack quality medical care, not just affordable care. Choice B is incorrect as it misinterprets the purpose of the investigation, which is to improve medical care for those not receiving quality care, rather than maintaining the health of those already healthy. Choice D is too vague and does not provide a specific reason for conducting the investigation, unlike choice C which highlights the potential benefits of identifying individuals in need of improved medical treatments.

5. If a biochemist isolates a large amount of pyruvate, which part of the cell is he working with?

A. Chloroplasts
B. Cytoplasm
C. Mitochondria
D. Nucleus

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Cytoplasm. Pyruvate is a product of glycolysis, a metabolic pathway that takes place in the cytoplasm of the cell. Therefore, a biochemist isolating a large amount of pyruvate would be working with the cytoplasm of the cell. Choice A, Chloroplasts, is incorrect because pyruvate is not produced in chloroplasts, which are responsible for photosynthesis. Choice C, Mitochondria, is incorrect as pyruvate is produced in the cytoplasm before entering the mitochondria for further metabolism. Choice D, Nucleus, is incorrect as the nucleus is not involved in the production or isolation of pyruvate, which is a metabolic intermediate.